Ashnabis session 52

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Session

Session date: May 9, 2021
Fair Cycle date:

Introduction

<AshnabisGM> In all the stories, the rain clouds always part just before the hero of the tale is to be wed. But this is Khurar in Ashnabis, and even heroism is insufficient to stave off the heavy downpours on this, the day of Katenzhi's wedding to Gefraz of the Argolda.
<AshnabisGM> But the venue could not be more ideal. The Argolda are an important Choradani family, after all, and although Gefraz is not its most prestigious representative, the General has made available the halls of Fort Kaskind in honor of the noble guests.
<AshnabisGM> The wedding will be officiated by none other than the high priestess of the colony, Dezmali Jesha of the Hand. Marrying into nobility has its privileges, you suppose.
<AshnabisGM> In the absence of an Argolda lineage house, the General has opened several halls for the family, and graciously allowed some space for you too, Kat, so that you're not trying to change into your wedding dress on the boat.

Katenzhi prepares for her wedding, with help from her mother

<AshnabisGM> Katenzhi, you are getting ready, with your family nearby either helping you with your dress, jewelry, and makeup (your mother), or fretting anxiously about how everything will go today (your father).
<Shiklazh> You look beautiful, my sweet. How are you feeling? Not too nervous?
<Katenzhi> I just need to remember that I've called lightning down on swamp monsters. I can handle this. Probably.
<Shiklazh> No lightning today!
* Shiklazh says firmly.
* Romoga laughs.
<Romoga> The ceremony is indoors, fortunately.
<Katenzhi> Well, none from me at least. It's petty nasty out.
* Romoga looks out the window.
<Romoga> I still think maybe we should have had the ceremony in Choradan - only a few of his family will make such a trip.
<Katenzhi> It was best all aound, I think.
<Shiklazh> Well, it's too late for that now. They already arrived - his parents, his brother, sister, and the sister's husband - and we need to put on a good display for them, so they'll see how well Gefraz is marrying.
<Katenzhi> Right. That's exactly the reason my wedding should be nice.
<Romoga> I suppose so. As long as it all goes well.
<Shiklazh> Yes, so they know their money is well spent :)
* Katenzhi sighs.
<Shiklazh> Don't be worried, though - I'm sure everything will be fine and afterwards, you can relax and have a good time.
* Shiklazh gives you a gentle hug, careful not to disarrange your hair or dress.
<Katenzhi> ight. Looking forwad to it.
<Romoga> He's a good man, your Gefraz.
<Katenzhi> Yeah... he actually is.
<Shiklazh> We're very proud of you, my dear.
<Katenzhi> I just never thought this day would come.
<Katenzhi> Hoped... actually.
<Katenzhi> But he is a good man. I could do a lot worse.
<Katenzhi> And thank you both for... all of this. Everything.
<Katenzhi> I know you only want what's best for me.
<Romoga> All we did is give you a gentle nudge.
<Shiklazh> After this, we will be out of your hair! until grandchildren begin to arrive, that is :D
<Katenzhi> yaaaaaaay...
<Katenzhi> Is everyone where they're supposed to be?
<Shiklazh> I think it's just about time... we should get into place.
<Romoga> Yes, I think so.
* Katenzhi hugs her mother and gives her father a kiss on the cheek.
<Katenzhi> Wish me luck, I guess.
<Shiklazh> The very best.
<Romoga> Full fortune to you, my beloved daughter.
* Katenzhi smiles, genuinely.
<Katenzhi> Thank you.

The wedding of Katenzhi and Gefraz takes place!

<AshnabisGM> Most of you haven't spent much time in the interior of the Fort - nor have you had much reason to want to. But the place definitely has its appeal. You knew there was a lot of construction last summer on the outbuildings, but the Fort itself has had lots of recent interior construction, mostly decorative.
<AshnabisGM> Spring greens bedeck the walls and the Argolda banner has been erected here and there near the suite of halls where the event will take place.
<AshnabisGM> The great hall itself, an oblong chamber with high round windows above you, lit by oil lamps along the long walls, is one of the least local-looking parts of Ashnabis any of you have ever been to.
<AshnabisGM> Even the Omban elites like Galdai normally make accommodations to local architectural practice and the climate of the Sestapor. Here, there is none of that - it is humid and sparse.
<AshnabisGM> None of you have ever been to a Choradani wedding, and the most recent wedding you were at, Lllillilli's traditional Aummesh ceremony, was very different.
<AshnabisGM> Like hers, this one features a procession of the bride, but instead of various lineage members, Katenzhi is escorted by a cadre of armed sentinels from the Fort in full dress armor, as if they were guarding a precious treasure. The journey is just down the hall, rather than through the whole town.
<AshnabisGM> A great bass horn signals your arrival in the great hall for the gathered guests, who rise and stand at attention. A young girl, perhaps a sentinel in training, sprinkles heavily scented water from a chain in front of you, moistening your path.
<AshnabisGM> One thing that is the same is the presentation of the bridewealth - that coin, previously agreed upon, that compensates Katenzhi's father for the loss of her labor to the family.
<AshnabisGM> Gefraz is led out by his father Kertu, along with other members of the Argolda clan who surround him, holding great spikes upon which vines spiral down to the floor. The groom himself is wearing a long, elegant coat trimmed with gold braid, and his mustache is neatly curled.
<AshnabisGM> Daifan, your attention was mostly on Katenzhi at first, naturally, but as she heads down to her new husband's family, you see a familiar face among them.
<AshnabisGM> A tall dark man stands among the shorter, olive-toned Argoldas. After a moment, you recognize it as Khesh. You have absolutely no idea what he is doing here. He does not appear to see you or notice you - if indeed he would recognize you anymore. But you are certain that it is him.
* Daifan unconsiously grips Junan's hand more tightly
<AshnabisGM> The high priestess Dezmali extends her hands towards the bride and groom, drawing you towards her.
* Dezmali is wearing resplendent long black robes, with a gold-lined belt around her waist. Her presence fills the room and all eyes are upon her as she begins to speak.
<Dezmali> Before the eyes of the ancestors and living members of the Argolda and Lovresi lineages, we come to join these their descendants Gefraz and Katenzhi in marriage.
<Dezmali> Once, all Kinds were one Kind, and all Clans were one Clan. But the Unfolding is unpredictable, and Coherence is fleeting. The cosmic egg is forever cracked.
<Dezmali> Yet a marriage is our way, as men and women, of claiming back Coherence against the sorrows of life. The joining of these two Clans, Argolda and Lovresi, serves to please the ancestors whose lives and deeds bring us to this moment of choice.
<Dezmali> Our ancestors beseech us: create life! Our ancestors command us: have hope!
* Dezmali takes an ornate silver bowl full of water and offers you each a sip from it.
<Dezmali> Without water there is no life - may you be blessed with a long and satisfying life together.
* Katenzhi takes a sip from it.
* Gefraz does as well.
* Dezmali then follows this with a second bowl full of newly-sprouted grains, presenting you each with a few to eat.
<Dezmali> Each seed has within it the potential to bring forth new life - may you be blessed with a fruitful and productive life together.
* Dezmali takes a third bowl, this one full of a mix of spices, and offers you a taste.
<Dezmali> Spices give seasoning to life - may you be blessed with a prosperous and delightful life together.
* Dezmali mixes the substances together - spices, grains, and water - and places them aside for your later post-ceremony meal.
* Dezmali then brings forth a long black cloth. She wraps one end around your right forearm, then brings it over to wrap around Gefraz's left forearm.
<Dezmali> Let this show that you are now bound to one another, with a tie that you have chosen and accepted willingly. You are now husband and wife.
* Gefraz gives you a kiss that's long enough to convince the relatives but short enough not to be too much of an imposition.
<Katenzhi> (Awww, he's so thoughtful :3)
<AshnabisGM> A great cheer goes up throughout the hall!
<AshnabisGM> The new couple leads the procession westwards down a long hallway, then north through an enclosed courtyard where a quartet of players of long Choradani stringed instruments serenades you onward.
* Katenzhi smiles at the crowd
<AshnabisGM> You head finally into a great round banquet hall, laid out already for the guests. The scent of smoked meats and spices fills the air. You honestly don't know who's paying for this, the Argolda or the Fort. As long as it's not you, you're not sure you care.
<AshnabisGM> There is a great dais at the center of the room for you and Gefraz, with all the other tables around the walls, looking inward towards the new married couple.
<AshnabisGM> And now, the great wedding feast!
* Katenzhi will smile at Gefraz and walk with him up to the dais

Daifan and Junan talk about Khesh, and Junan goes to speak with him in disguise

* Daifan tries to figure out why Khesh is here based o where he winds up sitting.... make he married into the family somehow?
<AshnabisGM> Daifan, you are still shocked and confused to see Khesh here with the groom's family. However, observing him during the ceremony, you see he stands next to a shorter, brown-haired woman in a fine copper-coloured silk gown, who leans on his arm for support and gazes up at him affectionately.
<AshnabisGM> She must be one of the groom's close family members, perhaps a sister, and thus - maybe? - Khesh's betrothed or even his wife?
<AshnabisGM> You don't really know what to make of it - did he somehow escape any serious punishment for his crimes? Does his new partner know about his past? What would she think of you, if she did know?
<AshnabisGM> You had almost expected never to see him again, and yet here he stands, mingling with the rich and important guests at the wedding of your friend.
<AshnabisGM> Surely he would not expect to see you here either - in all probability he doesn't know where you went after you left Kindalto, nor would he be likely to immediately recognize you the way you look now.
<Daifan> . o O (poor woman - his family must have sent him away, and she probably has no idea)
* Daifan will just try and avoid him if possible
<Junan> <w> somethings got you rattled
<Daifan> mmm... I know that man, from home. He is not someone I thought I would ever have to see again, and I would rather not.
* Daifan says with a subtle nod towards him
* Junan looks... anyone recoginizable?
* Daifan speaks quietly
<Daifan> he's the whole reason I left.
<Junan> I'm sure he can be easily avoided, if that is what you want.
<Junan> Or you could fuck with him
<Junan> up to you
* Daifan considers
<Daifan> No, I don't think its worth it.
<Daifan> You can do what you want though ;)
<Junan> I may do some subtle prodding... at least find out how he ended up here.
* Daifan nods
<Daifan> Find out when he's leaving >.>
<Junan> just in case its something that we need to know.
* Daifan nods
<Daifan> thanks. I thk he's... married, maybe, or betrothed to one of Gefraz's sisters
* Daifan will nod to the shorter woman he's with
<Junan> a Daligashi entwined with a Choridani family is always worth a few questions
<Daifan> mmhmm
<Junan> (do I have time just to go up to the family and start chatting?)
<AshnabisGM> Sure, you can do that.
<AshnabisNarrator> Yeah, people are generally mingling, you can probably do so without seeming out of place.
* Shiklazh is now known as Khesh
* Junan will mingle up and perform masterful small talk to get into a conversation with the family
<Junan> such dreadful weather for a long trip. I do hope you managed to arrive before the rain!
<Khesh> Oh, we teleported, so it wasn't much trouble. I did expect it to be warmer, though.
<Junan> A yes the bounty of fos does make such journeys so much shorter.
<Junan> I always find it makes me so dizzy
<Junan> So you teleport in from where in Daligash?
<Khesh> Ah, I live in Kindi Nasku, with my wife's family, although I did grow up in Daligash.
<Khesh> I see I must still have something of an accent :)
<Junan> Oh there I go again, blundering into assumptions again.
<Khesh> Are you a friend of the bride, or her family?
<Junan> I hear lots of accents, part of being a good trader and all, you see
* Khesh nods
<Junan> Friend of the bride's side, but I couldnt miss such a big show in the Fort
<Khesh> It's quite impressive - I wasn't sure what to expect from the colony but it's quite something. I hope we'll have a chance to see more than just the fort, over the time we're here.
<Junan> Planning to endure the humidity for a time longer and not whisk away back home?
<Junan> If you are, I might be able to introduce you to a few people. Always people looking for investors.
<Khesh> Ah, it isn't entirely up to me, but I imagine the expense of the trip, it would make sense to spend a few days at least, perhaps a week, to see their son settled properly, further ties with any business dealings in the area, and so on.
<Khesh> What sort of business are you in, that seeks investors?
<Junan> Ah too bad... I need to head out of town for a week or so... was hoping maybe when I get back... oh well, cant knock a fellow for trying.
<Khesh> Well, what is your name, or where we can contact you, should it prove possible?
<Junan> What business is almost everyone out here in? Do you really have to ask?
<Khesh> Fos trade?
* Khesh guesses
<Junan> Names Gasu Zergigh... if you're still in town leave a message for me at the Red Stump... sure you can find the place.
<Khesh> Very well, I'll keep that in mind. Good to meet you.
<Junan> And you
* Junan has a deep gut chuckle
<Junan> Time to enjoy more of the General's wine!
<Khesh> An excellent idea!
* Junan will slip away
<Junan> Oh what was your name again?
* Junan calls back?
<Khesh> Oh, my name is Khesh, of the Zhurunaika lineage.
* Junan nods
<Junan> Got it!

Katenzhi is surprised by the presence of her uncle Gasku

* Gefraz will bring you a cup of wine, Katenzhi.
<Gefraz> Here you are... it's so crowded, I almost lost you :)
<Katenzhi> Oh, you're a lifesaver!
<Gefraz> I guess that's why they tie us together.
* Katenzhi will smile and accept it gratefully.
* Katenzhi laughs.
<Katenzhi> How are you doing?
<Gefraz> I'm fine - the most stressful part is over. How about you?
* Katenzhi shrugs. "I'm ok, I think. It's weird to think about, you know? But at least the party is good."
<Katenzhi> How's your family doing?
<Gefraz> Fine, they're happy to be here. I know they're planning on staying for a short visit, but I don't think it will be too long, fortunately.
<Katenzhi> Good, good. I hope everyone is finally happy on both sides, at least.
* Gefraz nods
<Katenzhi> At least until we start getting the children questions...
<Gefraz> Heh, well, they can have some patience on that.
* Katenzhi laughs.
<Katenzhi> Let's hope so.
<Gefraz> You know I don't want to rush you into anything.
<Katenzhi> I know. And I appreciate that.
<Katenzhi> We'll see what happens.
* Gefraz nods
<Katenzhi> Thank you. I really do appreciate everything you've done for me.
<Katenzhi> I'm really lucky, and I know that.
<Gefraz> Well, I appreciate and respect you as well. Thank you for doing me the honour of marrying me.
* Katenzhi smiles.
* Katenzhi will lean in and kiss him again quickly, probably eliciting some cheers from the crowd nearby.
<Katenzhi> Any time.
<AshnabisGM> Katenzhi, at last the ceremony is over with, and you can breathe more easily, since it all went smoothly.
<AshnabisGM> Your father and, to a more subdued extent, your mother, are greeting guests with hearty handshakes and claps on the shoulder, as they celebrate their good fortune.
<AshnabisGM> As you stand next to your mother, a man approaches who you don't recognize. He's tall, maybe in his 50s or so, with curly grey hair and a scattering of freckles across the bridge of his nose, and wears a Choradani coat with blue and white embroidery.
<AshnabisGM> He looks a bit uncertain as he comes up to you, or rather to your mother.
* Shiklazh turns to look at him and you see her face go pale and slack.
<Shiklazh> ...Gasku?
<Katenzhi> Mother? Are you ok?
* Dezmali is now known as Gasku
<Gasku> Sister, I know it's been too many years. I hope my presence is not unwelcome.
<Shiklazh> Oh, ancestors, it's really you. I had no idea... I didn't think I would ever see you again...
* Shiklazh looks like she's torn between yelling at him and hugging him, and settles for bursting into tears and ruining her makeup.
<Katenzhi> Sis... what...
* Gasku steps back, unsure how to respond.
<Gasku> I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
<Shiklazh> Why are you here?
<Shiklazh> Where have you been all this time?
* Gasku pauses.
<Gasku> I've been living in Balul, working as a trader there, and I came to Kindi Nasku on business when I heard about the wedding of Katenzhi Lovresi to one of the Argolda. Well, I knew it had to be your daughter.
<Katenzhi> Mother...
* Shiklazh wipes at her face, trying to clean up the tears.
<Gasku> I'm sorry I didn't send word, but I... I admit I didn't want to be turned away before having a few moments to see you. Of course, if you want me to leave now, I will, but I'll do so knowing I made this much effort to see my niece's wedding.
* Shiklazh takes a deep breath, making an effort to compose herself.
<Katenzhi> U... uncle...?
<Shiklazh> Yes. This is your niece, my daughter Katenzhi. Katenzhi, this is your uncle Gasku - you wouldn't remember him, you were just small when last you saw him.
<Katenzhi> I remember. I... we all thought you were dead.
<Gasku> For a long time, I might as well have been.
<Gasku> It took me time to rebuild... to feel as though there was any point in living. Eventually, though, I found a reason to keep going. I married again, to my wife Kilta, and we have three children, a son and two daughters.
<Katenzhi> You...
<Gasku> My eldest, Nanegh, is here with me. He helps with the business and wanted to come.
<Katenzhi> Oh ancestors...
<Shiklazh> Your eldest...
<Katenzhi> You... you don't know?
* Shiklazh gives you a Look
<Shiklazh> <w> Daughter, maybe this is not the time...
* Katenzhi nods dumbly.
<Katenzhi> Of course... I'm sorry, I'm just... startled.
<Gasku> Know what?
<Katenzhi> Nothing. It's not important.
<Katenzhi> I'm just... I can't believe you're here.
<Shiklazh> We have a lot to catch up on.
<Gasku> I don't mean to have intruded on your day.
<Gasku> It's been a long time.
<Katenzhi> No, of course. You're welcome here.
* Shiklazh nods, still looking rather dazed.
* Gasku smiles.
<Gasku> Thank you.
<Gasku> I'll give you some space. You have many guests to greet.
<Katenzhi> Of course. But... how long are you staying in town?
<Katenzhi> My mother is right, we have a lot to catch up on.
<Gasku> A few days, at least.
* Katenzhi nods.
<Shiklazh> Your son, is he here with you as well? Or .. where are you staying?
<Gasku> Yes, he's here. We have a room at an inn.
* Katenzhi nods again.
<Katenzhi> If you two will excuse me for just a moment... I have to... do things...
<Gasku> Of course.
* Katenzhi will rush off to find Jimba and/or Llillilli.

Daifan and Junan, in disguise, flirt with Jimba

* Junan lets Daifan know what he learned and then point out Jimba
<Junan> If he does stick around or is despirate to get his feet into something, we'll probably know
<Daifan> mmmm, yes, lets pay atention to someone more worthy ;)
* Daifan nods
<Junan> lets have some fun :)
* Daifan will grab an extra glass of wine and go to encircle our target ^-^
* Jimba will be making the rounds, chatting with folks.
<Junan> I told you, look at those shoulders and that tan... he's knows how to work a mast, I'm sure of it.
<Jimba> (Chatting is kind of his default)
<Daifan> Oh, yes!
<Daifan> Hey sailor - offer you a drink? ;)
* Daifan says, proferring the wine
<Jimba> (Okay, so, do I roll Perception?)
<Jimba> (Also, what're y'all's disguises like?)
<Daifan> (yeah perception, I guess we shudl actaully make rolls ;)
<Junan> (ok)
* Daifan is a nicely dressed lady
<Jimba> !roll 1d20+15
* Daifan rolls for Jimba: [ 1d20+15 ] getting [ 15 ] which, after the modifier [ 15 ] totals [ 30 ].
* Junan is a well dressed merchant with a fine trimmed beard
<Daifan> !roll 1d20+13
* Daifan rolls [ 1d20+13 ] getting [ 13 ] which, after the modifier [ 13 ] totals [ 26 ]
<Jimba> I certainly wouldn't say no. ;)
<Junan> !roll 1d20+17
* Daifan rolls for Junan: [ 1d20+17 ] getting [ 10 ] which, after the modifier [ 17 ] totals [ 27 ].
<Daifan> (we can probably each boost the other with an assist, and I have a disguise kit. i.e. fancy makeup too that I didn't include in the roll)
* Daifan smiles
<Daifan> You're part of the bride's family?
<Jimba> Cousin, on her mother's side. Jimba of the Ghughife.
<Jimba> And you?
<Junan> (yeah those bonuses would make them +4 higher)
<Daifan> (yeah)
* Daifan smiles at Junan
<Daifan> Or, we have good buiness with the fort so.. technicaly we're party crashers, but who could resist such a lovely shindig? ;)
<Jimba> Indeed. I'm...not even really sure who's paying for all this.
<Jimba> But, hey, it's not me, so drink up. ;)
* Daifan grins
<Daifan> Its all good for business - and nice to get out of the rain, whew!
<Junan> So did we guess right? You are a sailor?
<Jimba> Hmm? Oh, yes. Sailor, trader, surveyor...jack of all trades, really.
<Daifan> you cetainly have the shoulders >:D
* Jimba smirks at that.
<Daifan> very versitile - sounds fun ^-^
<Junan> How do you endure those lonely days at sea? It would drive me crazy?
<Jimba> Well, I think every sailor finds ways to pass the time.
<Daifan> I'm sure - and even better when you come back to land, right?
<Junan> Maybe you make up for it while you're back in port. Like on nights like this?
* Jimba chuckles.
<Jimba> Those stories are exaggerated. Mostly. ;)
<Jimba> What sort of business do you do with the fort?
<Daifan> Maybe, - but this is a party - a joyous occasion, to celebrat a happying...comig together ;)
<Jimba> And, I'm sorry, I completely forgot to get your names.
<Daifan> of a new couple :D
<Junan> I'm not sure we even mentioned them
* Junan gives a sly smile
<Jimba> I was trying to ask...
<Daifan> no but wed be happy to get more acquainted ^-^
<Daifan> I'm Afra
<Junan> Gasu
<Jimba> A pleasure to...make your acquaintance.
<Daifan> well we certainly hope so ^-^
* Daifan says, resting their hand on Jimba's arm for a moment ;)
<Junan> Afra likes strong hands
<Junan> I'm inclined to agree we her
<Jimba> I'm fairly partial to them myself, though I've got...wide-ranging interests.

Katenzhi interrupts to tell Jimba his father is there

* Katenzhi will come jogging up as fast as possible in her dress.
<Katenzhi> Jimba!
<Jimba> Kat!
* Daifan looks over
<Daifan> Oh, the bride herself!
<Jimba> Hey, congratulations.
* Katenzhi looks at the two people with him.
<Jimba> I haven't had a chance to say that yet.
<Katenzhi> Jimba I need to talk to you... now.
<Daifan> yes, what lovely earrings those are
<Daifan> chose in excellent taste ;)
<Junan> You must be excited for such a wonderful event
<Daifan> (Assuming Daifan picked them out ;)
<Jimba> Sure. Kat, have you met Afra and Gasu?
<Katenzhi> !roll 1d20+15
* Daifan rolls for Katenzhi: [ 1d20+15 ] getting [ 12 ] which, after the modifier [ 15 ] totals [ 27 ].
<Junan> I styled my beard just to match this wonderful occsaison
<Katenzhi> (Perception)
<Jimba> (Has Kat not seen Daifan in disguise earlier?)
<Daifan> (not... quite, but probably D looks... strangely fmailiar? ;)
<Daifan> (Oh yeah, she might know)
<Katenzhi> (You had a 26, didn't you?)
<Junan> (I dont think we would keep that a secret from Kat since she would want you to be here)
<Jimba> (Well, there were possible modifiers, but, yeah, I think Kat would know?)
<Daifan> (yeah)
<Katenzhi> Daifan... I really need to talk to my cousin right now...
<Daifan> (she can know that's fine)
<Daifan> ...is everything okay?
<Jimba> I knew it!
<Katenzhi> No.
* Daifan says, ther demeanor changin for overtly flirty to concerned
* Katenzhi will grab Jimba's arm and tug him away to a corner.
* Jimba snaps his fingers and turns to point at Daifan accusatorily.
<Junan> What's happened?
<Daifan> ...they can tel us later
* Jimba lets himself be dragged away.
<Jimba> Kat, what's going on?
<Daifan> We can go fid Llillilli though and let her know something is happening
<Jimba> You look like someone died.
<Katenzhi> Ok listen... I need to tell you something and it may be the most important thing I've ever told you and... here, have a drink first.
* Katenzhi catches a glass of something off a table and hands it to him.
<Jimba> I've had a couple. I'm fine.
<Jimba> What's going on.
* Jimba is now serious.
<Katenzhi> Please don't freak out...
<Jimba> Maybe not the best lead-in.
<Katenzhi> ...your father is here.
<Jimba> ...
<Jimba> What?
<Katenzhi> He... he just came up to me and mother. He said... he heard about the wedding.
<Katenzhi> He's... he's really here.
<Jimba> Huh.
* Jimba looks stunned.
<Jimba> Wow. That's...
<Katenzhi> Are you ok?
<Jimba> Uh, wow.
<Jimba> Yeah, no, I'm all right.
<Katenzhi> I'm sorry I... didn't know how else to tell you.
<Jimba> Kat, this is your big day. You should be out mingling and enjoying it.
<Katenzhi> Jimba, this is so much more important than my stupid fake wedding.
* Katenzhi glances around quickly to make sure no one heard that.
<Jimba> Hey. It's completely real.
<Katenzhi> I mean, it's a real wedding, yeah, but.... whatever, that's not the issue right now.
* Jimba smirks.
<Katenzhi> Do you... do you want to see him?
<Jimba> ...I think so?
<Jimba> Can you point him out?
* Katenzhi will look around the room and try to surreptitiously point out the grey haired man in the blue and white coat.
<Jimba> Huh. Okay.
<Jimba> You talked to him?
<Katenzhi> Briefly. He said he'd be in town a few days. He's staying at the inn.
<Katenzhi> With his... son.
<Jimba> His son?
* Katenzhi nods.
<Katenzhi> Jimba... whatever you need me to do...
<Katenzhi> Just tell me.
<Katenzhi> Wedding be damned.

Daifan lets Llillilli know of the family drama

* Daifan will spy their friend and hurry over towards her at the buffet
* Llillilli stands awkwardly off to one side
* Daifan drags Junan along
<Daifan> Hey Sunshine - it's me
* Llillilli blinks
<Llillilli> Oh. Hello.
<Daifan> I think there's something going on with Kat - she just came and grabbed Jimba off to the corner over there. She seemed upset.
* Llillilli frowns.
<Llillilli> Jimba is better at these things...
* Daifan gives a guiding look over in the direction
* Llillilli looks over to where Kat and Jimba are.
<Daifan> yes - but is anythig happens I just wanted you to be aware
<Llillilli> !roll 1d20+8
* Daifan rolls for Llillilli: [ 1d20+8 ] getting [ 7 ] which, after the modifier [ 8 ] totals [ 15 ].
<Llillilli> (lol nope)
<Llillilli> Okay...
* Llillilli looks doubtful.
<Daifan> She didn't want to talk to us so... maybe it is some trouble for just him? or something from the family?
<Llillilli> Probably her parents.
<Daifan> that would make sense...
<Junan> The look on Kat's face has me worried
* Llillilli sighs.
<Llillilli> Fine. I will go,
* Llillilli does that

Llillilli joins Jimba and Katenzhi and they discuss what to do about Gasku

* Llillilli approaches the two of you
<Llillilli> Is something wrong?
<Jimba> Sister, I was just going to come find you.
<Katenzhi> Oh! Llillilli!
<Jimba> There's some, uh, some news. For us.
<Katenzhi> Jimba... do you need me to... tell her?
* Llillilli frowns.
<Jimba> No.
<Llillilli> What is it?
<Jimba> Llillilli...our father is here.
* Jimba knows his sister prefers blunt honesty.
* Llillilli stares at you blankly for a moment,
<Llillilli> We have no father.
<Jimba> Well, we sort of have two.
<Llillilli> What are you talking about.
<Jimba> But, I mean, the man who is our paternal relative by blood.
<Jimba> He's here, at the wedding.
<Jimba> Kat spoke to him.
<Katenzhi> He came up to me after the wedding...
<Katenzhi> My mother recognized him...
<Llillilli> ...
<Katenzhi> Do you need a drink?
<Llillilli> No.
* Llillilli scowls while also looking confused.
<Llillilli> Why is he here?
<Jimba> His niece got married.
<Katenzhi> He said he heard about the wedding. He wanted to see me.
<Llillilli> ... Jimba, will he cause you a problem?
<Jimba> What? No, I'm okay.
<Jimba> Is it going to be a problem for you?
<Llillilli> Does he know... what happened to our mother, I mean.
* Jimba nods.
<Katenzhi> I don't know. He... doesn't know about either of you.
<Llillilli> He left us... for those priests to take.
* Jimba nods.
<Katenzhi> He had just seen his wife murdered in front of him.
<Jimba> To the best of my knowledge, as far as he knows, we were raised by the Hand, yes.
<Katenzhi> Do you want it to stay that way?
* Katenzhi asks both of you.
<Jimba> You don't have to make excuses for him, Kat. I don't blame him. I don't think it was right, but...who am I to judge.
<Jimba> It was a long time ago.
<Jimba> (to Llillilli) I think I'd like to talk to him, but, if you'd prefer I didn't, that'd be all right as well.
<Llillilli> It is up to you.
<Jimba> I'm not sure I'd even want to tell him who I am.
<Jimba> That's...very complicated and delicate.
* Katenzhi nods.
<Jimba> But meeting him...might be nice.
<Katenzhi> What if... what if my parents tell him?
* Jimba frowns, thinking on that.
<Llillilli> I would be surprised,
<Jimba> Maybe...maybe Auntie Shiklazh should talk to him.
<Jimba> It's as much her story as ours or his.
<Katenzhi> Maybe you two should talk to her tonight.
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> Later, though.
<Jimba> I'm serious about you enjoying your day, Kat.
<Katenzhi> Jimba...
* Jimba puts on his best smile.
<Jimba> I'm fine.
<Jimba> Eat. Drink. Be merry. All of that.
* Katenzhi looks at Llillilli to gauge how she's doing.
* Jimba will be looking at her as well.
* Llillilli 's expression is hard to read.
<Katenzhi> Llillilli... are you ok?
<Llillilli> Which one is he?
* Katenzhi will point him out again.
* Llillilli stares
<Llillilli> Hm.
<Jimba> Kat, seriously, get back to your guests. We'll be okay.
<Jimba> We stand warned, we're fine.
<Katenzhi> Are you sure?
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> Yeah.
<Jimba> You look really beautiful, by the way.
* Llillilli folds her arms over her chest, still staring at the guy.
<Jimba> Not sure if I'd mentioned.
<Katenzhi> Ok. If you need me at all...
* Katenzhi smiles.
<Katenzhi> Thanks...
* Jimba smiles.
<Jimba> (to Llillilli) Want to take a walk?
<Llillilli> I am fine
* Katenzhi will go back to check on her mother and make sure she's alright.
<Jimba> All right. Would you mind walking with me?
<Llillilli> If you want.
* Jimba will take advantage of the size of the fort to get some privacy from the festivities.
* Llillilli is quiet.
<Jimba> Are you upset I want to talk to him?
<Llillilli> No.
<Jimba> All right.
<Llillilli> Though I don't understand why.
<Jimba> Morbid curiosity?
<Llillilli> Hm.
<Jimba> You're right. He's not our father, in any way that matters.
<Llillilli> He's a coward.
<Jimba> But he also didn't know he *could
* have been.
<Jimba> We don't know that.
<Jimba> People aren't defined by one moment in their lives.
<Llillilli> Sometimes they are.
* Jimba half-smiles.
<Llillilli> Like Yeggun turned the corner when he killed those children.
* Jimba 's face hardens at that.
<Jimba> This is not the same.
<Llillilli> Not in scale.
<Jimba> I'm not saying he was right in what he did.
<Jimba> But I'm also not willing to say it's not worth knowing him because he did this one wrong thing.
<Llillilli> You are a generous man.
* Jimba sighs and chuckles.
<Jimba> So everyone tells me.
<Llillilli> Will you tell him?
<Llillilli> Who you are? Who we are?
<Jimba> I don't know.
<Jimba> Who I am...I can deal with. Who *we
* are...that's more complicated.
<Jimba> I don't want to make anything difficult for you.
* Llillilli snorts
<Jimba> Or for auntie and uncle, or Kat.
<Llillilli> I'm not worried about myself.
<Jimba> I know you don't particularly care for it...well, most anywhere, but you *do
* live here, and who and what we are being public could cause problems.
<Jimba> For Thelef, for instance.
* Llillilli scowls.
<Llillilli> Thelef...
<Jimba> His family can be...well, you know how they are.
* Jimba sighs.
<Jimba> I should probably just leave well enough alone.
<Llillilli> It is up to you, brother.
<Llillilli> He came to see his sister's daughter married... maybe he would put her interests above... "revealing" us
<Llillilli> (air quotes)
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> One would hope.
* Jimba sighs again.
<Jimba> I never hated it until I got here. The...secret.
<Llillilli> Mm.
<Jimba> Back home, it only mattered to Uncle Romoga, obviously, but here...
* Llillilli nods.
<Jimba> The whole business is so stupid.
<Llillilli> Ghoulish.
* Llillilli says bitterly.
<Jimba> Ancestors be damned. We are people. Daifan is a person. Same as anyone else.
* Llillilli nods.
* Jimba chuckles bitterly.
<Llillilli> I know my worth. I hope you do as well.
* Llillilli offers a small smile
* Jimba gives a small smile back.
<Jimba> I don't know if I've mentioned this to you, but there's this guy I like. He's a friend of Daifan's, but if I was public with him, I couldn't help them, and if I'm not willing to be public, he doesn't want to be with me...
<Jimba> Ugh!
<Jimba> I know that's just a little thing, but it's this whole shitty situation.
<Llillilli> A man from Banei?
* Jimba nods.
* Llillilli frowns.
<Llillilli> I am sorry... That is a terrible situation. :(
<Llillilli> ALl of it... so stupid. Like you said.
<Jimba> Yeah.
<Llillilli> HOw can anyone decide who is a person, based on what time their mother died? Ridiculous. Barbaric.
* Jimba shrugs.
<Jimba> Who decides any of it? The people who came before.
<Llillilli> They should stay dead where they belong.

Katenzhi checks in to see how her mother is doing

* Katenzhi will make her way back to her mother.
* Shiklazh is sitting quietly on a bench, sipping a drink.
* Katenzhi will sit next to her and grab a drink for herself.
<Katenzhi> Are you ok?
<Shiklazh> I don't know... it's a shock.
<Katenzhi> I know.
<Katenzhi> I... I told Jimba and Llillilli. They deserved to know.
* Shiklazh winces a little, but sighs.
<Shiklazh> You're right, they should know... I just wish it could have been another time... not at your wedding.
<Katenzhi> It's fine.
<Shiklazh> Is it? Are they all right?
<Katenzhi> I think so. Jimba is. I'm not sure about Llillilli but... then again, I rarely am.
<Shiklazh> Are they going to go talk to him? Should I ... try to explain to him, or leave it to them?
<Katenzhi> I think it should be up to them. It's their past. And their future.
<Katenzhi> They're adults. They can make that decision.
<Shiklazh> But if they decide not to tell him, and he finds out ... or even, if he introduces himself to people, his name, they'll make the connection to the Ghugife lineage and they might say something to him...
<Shiklazh> "Oh, like Jimba Ghugife" and then the secret is out...
<Katenzhi> Then we'll deal with that if it happens.
<Katenzhi> As a family.
<Katenzhi> Mom... I want you to know... I've never once in my life questioned you and father's decision to keep them. You did the right thing. Please don't ever think otherwise.
<Shiklazh> I don't know what his reaction would be. I don't want to ... ruin things for them.
* Katenzhi nods.
<Katenzhi> I know.
<Katenzhi> That's why it should be up to them.
<Katenzhi> ...does father know? Are you gonna tell him?
<Shiklazh> I have to, because if he finds out on his own, he might make a scene or say something foolish. But I need to find a moment to take him aside.
* Katenzhi nods.
<Katenzhi> Do you want me to be there?
<Shiklazh> we should have just pretended they were mine - given them the Lovresi name. Not kept them... separate, that way.
* Shiklazh shakes her head.
<Katenzhi> No. Don't do that. You did right by them.
<Katenzhi> You did what you thought was best.
<Shiklazh> No, you should be here, at the wedding celebration... People will notice if you leave.
* Katenzhi nods.
* Shiklazh pats your arm.
<Shiklazh> It will be alright - we'll find a way to make it alright.
* Katenzhi puts her hand on her mother's.
<Katenzhi> It will be ok, mom.
<Shiklazh> Well, at least it was after the wedding. The Argolda can't go back on it now.
* Katenzhi laughs
<Katenzhi> Don't worry, I'm out of your hair now.
<Shiklazh> Oh no, never, my dear :)
* Katenzhi puts an arm around her mother.
* Shiklazh leans against you for a moment.
<Shiklazh> Very well... Let me go find your father, and I'll make sure he understands that whatever else happens, for now he is to keep his mouth shut and not say anything about this.
<Katenzhi> Ok. Let me know if you need anything, wedding or no.
<Shiklazh> No no, you go and enjoy your special day. I won't be gone long.
<Katenzhi> I love you, mom.
<Shiklazh> I love you too.

Junan talks with the General, and then with Lentus about the Ulonian Regiment

<AshnabisGM> Junan, you have spent much time here at the Fort over the past few weeks. You still are never quite sure what your new role entails, but the General and her staff have taken much of their time getting you up to speed on matters that may require your attention.
<AshnabisGM> It is made clear that in all of this, you are to stand outside the regimented order of Choradani life and norms here at the Fort. You are no sentinel, and report to none but the General herself.
<AshnabisGM> Today you had hoped to enjoy your friend Katenzhi's wedding in peace, but you were given strict orders not to overindulge, not to womanize, and to be prepared in case you were needed.
<AshnabisGM> There are, of course, any number of sentinels here at the wedding, guards, mostly. The Argoldas are a Choradani family but not a military lineage. But the General herself is here, which makes sense, you suppose. After all, it is her Fort.
<AshnabisGM> She approaches you shortly after dinner.
* Gasku is now known as Ghurtai
* Ghurtai is a burly woman, perhaps around forty, in a formal sentinel's dress uniform. Her ancient khazkamma is at her side, as it often is even in everyday situations, with a thin chain looping around it and her belt.
<Ghurtai> Junan, good to see you. Enjoying yourself?
<Junan> Its Gasu, and you are doing him a great honor in talking to him
<Ghurtai> Gasu, then. It is indeed my honor.
<Junan> Investors will be lining up now for his fos trade.
<Junan> or to at least learn how he got the ear of the General
<Ghurtai> That man over there ... is that Lentus of the Odazhi? Or is he now Lentus of the Lentu?
* Ghurtai looks across the room at the Stone Prince, who seems at ease talking to some of the young pages and servants of the Fort, a glass of wine in hand.
<Junan> I hadn't heard he had accepted thier proposal
<Ghurtai> I don't know that he has.
<Junan> its not a large force, regardless, and he's not exactly inclined for chaos. Would it not be a bad thing if he did become?
<Ghurtai> I read your report about the Ulonian Regiment. They see him as something of a savior, you wrote. Does he look like a savior to you?
<Ghurtai> I worry. That is my job.
<Junan> I think he's just trying to find his place.
<Junan> Helping him carve out his spot, make a useful ally
* Ghurtai nods.
<Ghurtai> If he's carving, I want to encourage him to make the right cut.
<Ghurtai> There are some, here in the Fort, who see the Ulonians as traitors. Certainly, as a risk to the integrity of the Fort. Who fear the kinds of ideas they espouse infecting the troops.
<Junan> If a disenfranchised group of mercinaries can influence discipline in the Fort, I think you have other worries.
<Ghurtai> Not on their own, no. But he is a symbol. Symbols have power.
<Junan> The symbol is still a man, bond him like every other man has in the past.
<Junan> I can try and find someone if you like
<Ghurtai> What I'd like is to know where he stands on all this. What they want of him, and more importantly, what he thinks of them.
<Junan> your wants sound quite achievable. I'll see what I can do
<Ghurtai> I'm sure with your talents, you can put him at ease and discern his sentiments on the matter.
<Junan> It will be my pleasure to ease one of those worries of yours.
<Ghurtai> It was very nice to meet you, Gasu. Thank you for coming.
* Ghurtai shakes your hand firmly.
<Junan> You do me too great an honor
* Junan nods with appropriate respect
* Junan will slip away from the hall, and use his Disguise Self ability, to disguise as Himself
* Junan will then work the crowd over to Lentus
* Ghurtai is now known as Lentus
* Lentus beams as he sees you. He is wearing a long green dashi with small semi-precious stones around the cuffs. Around his neck is an iftijasi, a lineage slate, which appears to be newly carved.
<Lentus> Hello, Junan!
<Junan> Ah Lentus, nice to run into you. Enjoying the wedding? It looks lovely.
<Lentus> It has been so long since I have been to a wedding. Of course, it is not the same. These Choradani seem so austere, so grim. But they can surely drink!
<Junan> I concure on all of those statements!
<Lentus> Imperial weddings often used to feature orgies.
<Junan> I have never experienced that... I didnt even know it was an option
* Lentus laughs heartily.
<Junan> So getting your feet underneath you any better? The slate is new.
<Lentus> Ah yes ... my Aummesh kinfolk had it made for me.
<Lentus> They speak ill of this Fort, sometimes. And I do understand. They see it as oppression, as a foreign growth on this beautiful land. But this too is beautiful, in its own way.
<Junan> Ever the tight balance in this and that
* Lentus nods.
<Lentus> Katenzhi looks radiant this evening.
<Junan> My father taught me that in deals, as in life, if you look hard, one can always find a way for each side to be ahead.
* Lentus nods.
<Junan> I do agree.. despite my lateness, sometime the life as an envoy takes me away from where I want to be... I may have had a sneak peek at some if it.
<Lentus> How do you mean?
<Junan> I may have seen the dress while it was tailored.
<Junan> or at least had it decribed to me
<Lentus> I thought you were going to say while it was being donned.
<Junan> You take me for such a scandalous individual?
* Junan laughs
* Lentus laughs.
<Junan> I'm hurt, just hurt
* Junan laughs some more
<Lentus> Well I wouldn't have thought Katenzhi would have you.
<Junan> The Ghez are an upstanding and well off lineage, present company exluded.
<Lentus> I would never disparage your family.
<Junan> on a different subject of having people, are you a new commander now?
<Lentus> A commander ... oh, the Ulonians?
* Lentus shakes his head ruefully.
<Lentus> They are a strange bunch. But I think they do not understand any better than the Fort does about this place, the Sestapor ... Ashnabis.
<Junan> I will say they seem eager for leadership, or at least direction.
<Lentus> Yes. The wrong direction.
<Junan> ( I will sense thoughts on this topic, using moment of prescience)
<Lentus> I can see, better than all of you, just how much everything has changed. The followers of Ulon, they see me and they see the past they long for. And so it may be! But I look around and I see a place with a history, and a future. Every day I am reminded of all the changes.
<Lentus> (sure go ahead)
<Junan> !roll 1d20+14
* Daifan rolls for Junan: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 11 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 25 ].
<AshnabisGM> (yeah no way he's beating that even if he was trying)
<Junan> (opposed by his bluff)
<Junan> You do have a unique perspective.
<AshnabisGM> You sense that he is maybe annoyed or bored or weary with the Ulonians. He is interested in why you want to know though.
<Lentus> Certainly. But I am just a man.
<Junan> I mean if its not something that interests you, you can just say no and let them find thier next leader.
<AshnabisGM> You sense that it's not just the Ulonians he's talking about.
<Lentus> Yes, I suppose.
<Junan> I should get Jaigadu to talk them. I'm sure he would be interested in thier story, and might be able to help them find what they're missing.
<Junan> I hope they're able to figure it out.
<Lentus> I do too. But I fear that if they are looking only to the past, they will not see all the beauty that is here, now. Among the Aummesh, for instance.
<Junan> Maybe not, but its worth trying.
<Lentus> Well, perhaps.
<Lentus> But for now, I think I will enjoy this beautiful evening with new friends.
<Junan> Is there a particular beauty that you're eying? I could probably help introduce?
<Lentus> Not yet - we'll just have to see where things go, though.

Veznara chats with Galdai about weddings

<AshnabisNarrator> Veznara, you serve no official role today at the wedding. It is surely correct that the high priestess should officiate such an important wedding as this one, with foreign nobility come to the town. But Dezmali has given you a very important charge nonetheless.
<AshnabisNarrator> You are charged with babysitting - I mean, keeping watch and company with Princess Galdai. You get the sense that she was invited by the family out of a sense of formality, as the highest-ranking member of the nobility in the colony, and that they perhaps did not expect her to actually attend.
<AshnabisNarrator> Taizi and Choradan have not always been friendly - not even always within your lifetime. No outright war - the border is not really in dispute - but constant trade battles. The Princess would have no reason to need to be here.
<AshnabisNarrator> However, now that she's here, it's important to ensure that she is comfortable and well looked after - and who better than you, who knows her so well, to sit by her side and fetch her anything she might need?
* Shiklazh is now known as Galdai
* Galdai seems perhaps even more frail than you've seen her in the past - she wears a heavy wrapped purple shawl, enshrouding herself as if in a cocoon to keep out the damp and chill of the fortress stone.
<Galdai> Hardly a fitting location for a wedding, don't you think? A fort is a place of defense and bloodshed, but not refinement or elegance. But that's Choradani thinking for you - start your marriage off from a place of strength, I suppose.
<Galdai> Your Dezmali did a fine job at the ceremony, though. She has a way with her words - to make even a place like this come together for such an occasion.
<Galdai> Of course, my dear Ziftu's wedding to your brother will take place at my estate - a more tasteful, dignified setting.
<Veznara> Indeed, ma'am. As you say, this may be the Choradani way... but I am sure your own estate will be an excellent place for such a happy occasion.
<Veznara> Hand Dezmali will be most pleased to hear you compliment the ceremony today, though.
<Galdai> As well she should be, of course.
* Veznara nods
<Veznara> Your Imperial Highness does the happy couple much honour.
<Galdai> Well, one must make a showing now and then.
* Veznara nods
<Veznara> Would you care to sit, ma'am?
<Galdai> Yes, perhaps that would be best, if you can find a comfortable chair.
* Veznara immediately tends to the issue, politely but ruthlessly ejecting someone if necessary
<Galdai> Ah, this will do, thank you.
<Galdai> But about Ziftu and Sumurt, they are becoming quite fond of one another, I think - do you have the same impression?
<Veznara> I hope so, ma'am. I do think so. Sumurt did ask a few nervous questions before their first meeting, but since then I think he has slowly been realizing that this match will be not only a great honour, but a great happiness as well.
<Veznara> I hope Lady Ziftu feels the same.
<Galdai> I think she is coming to that view. She should be happy he is close to her age. They can adapt to one another at this age, better than if they were further apart in years.
<Galdai> It's good to see young people happy with their chosen matches.
<Veznara> (Do I detect a hint of wistfulness at that?)
<Galdai> My own marriage was a rather distant one - I hope it will not be the same for her.
<Veznara> I have confidence in Sumurt, ma'am. And there will be someone here to give him, ah, *gentle
* *hints
* if he needs to be more attentive.
<AshnabisNarrator> (not wistfulness, I don't think - practicality and maybe realism/pragmatism?)
<Galdai> Certainly, they're still quite young - they will need some guidance from their elders. Your parents suggested the wedding take place in a year from now, when they are a little bit older, but I refused.
<Veznara> Oh? Your Imperial Highness wishes to see them settled happily before then?
<Galdai> I'm an old woman, Hand Veznara, and I don't know how much time is left to me. I want to see my granddaughter married before I go to join my ancestor, and to know that she will be well looked after when I am gone.
<Galdai> (ancestors)
<Veznara> Of course, ma'am. Though I hope the Ancestors will bless you with many happy years yet.
<Galdai> Mmm, perhaps.
<Galdai> Do you ever regret your choice to go into the church, Hand Veznara? You'll never have the joy of a wedding day like this.
<Galdai> That is, if it was a choice - perhaps it was more your parents' decision?
<Veznara> Oh, it was indeed my own choice, ma'am. I'm afraid it caused a measure of disruption, too - I was already betrothed at the time, of course.
<Galdai> Oh?
<Galdai> Quite a change of course, then.
<Galdai> What prompted your decision?
<Veznara> Well, I suppose it was more of a pre-betrothal at that point? I was intended for Khumos Mulduvasi.
<Veznara> I was simply called to serve the Ancestors. I felt it.
<Veznara> It wasn't that I objected to the idea of marriage, nor to Khumos specifically - he was nice enough.
* Galdai nods
<Veznara> It's strange to think upon. I suppose I could easily have ended up in a completely different life.
<Galdai> I thought from time to time that the life of a priestess might have suited me - but of course, at my rank, marriage was all but required.
* Veznara nods
<Veznara> Yes, ma'am. I suppose there was also the fact that I have a few sisters, so they were available to make alliances even if I was not.
<Veznara> As it was I did have to convince my parents of the sincerity of my calling. But they did come to accept it.
<Galdai> Well, that's fortunate.
<Galdai> And your life has turned out as you hoped. If you had a chance to do it again, you wouldn't choose differently?
* Veznara smiles
<Veznara> Not at all! If I had chosen differently, I would most likely never have come to attend you, ma'am.
<Veznara> But even if I that had not been destined...
<Veznara> I am well content serving the Ancestors.
* Galdai laughs slightly, which sends her into a mild coughing fit.
* Veznara immediately tries to soothe it, sending a servant for hot water
<AshnabisNarrator> You can get her a drink and help her recover, and perhaps that's a good point to move on?
<Veznara> (Sure)

Jimba and Llillilli confront their father outside

<AshnabisNarrator> Okay, Jimba, did you want to approach your father? and if so, how do you want to do this?
<Jimba> That's a very good question
<Jimba> Jimba's so bad at subterfuge.
<Jimba> I feel like he'd probably want to approach him later, after the wedding, if possible.
<AshnabisNarrator> That would be doable - he probably isn't going to stay super late or anything, so you could watch for when he leaves and then follow him out to talk outside or elsewhere?
<Jimba> That works for me
<AshnabisNarrator> Okay - so it sounds like Llillilli also wants to go with you?
* Gasku can be found outside the main fort, in the broad plaza leading towards the land registry. It's still raining so he's walking briskly.
* Jimba will walk after him for a little bit, getting up the courage to talk to him.
* Llillilli trails along with him
<Jimba> Okay, nothing for it
* Jimba walks up to Gasku.
* Llillilli backs you up.
<Jimba> Gasku?
* Gasku turns around.
<Gasku> Yes?
* Llillilli stares at him, as this is the closest she's been
<Gasku> Who are you?
<Jimba> My name is Jimba. Jimba Ghughife.
<Gasku> ...
<Gasku> Are you cousins of Shiklazh, then? Why ... who?
* Gasku asks, mostly confused.
<Llillilli> We are cousins of Katenzhi.
* Llillilli says grimly
<Jimba> Cousins of...what she said.
<Gasku> ... On our side ...
<Gasku> ... no.
* Jimba nods.
* Gasku takes a step back.
<Jimba> I just wanted to meet you.
<Jimba> Kat told me you were here for her wedding.
<Gasku> This has got to be a cruel hoax.
* Gasku takes another step back on the slick flagstones.
<Llillilli> No.
<Jimba> I'm not really sure how to prove otherwise, but what would we have to gain by lying?
<Gasku> And you ... what is your name?
* Gasku says to Llillilli.
<Llillilli> I am called Llillilli.
<Gasku> You were to be sent with the tide ... she promised ...
<Jimba> (Sent with the tide?)
<Llillilli> What a stupid euphemism for abarbaric practice.
<AshnabisGM> (given to the Hand to be redistributed as corpseborn)
<Jimba> (I figured, I just didn't recognize the turn of phrase)
<Jimba> We were raised by our family.
<Gasku> I never asked for any of this. I never wanted this.
<Jimba> Clearly.
<Jimba> -_-
* Llillilli looks disgusted.
<Gasku> What ... what did they tell you, of your mother?
<Jimba> What do you mean?
<Llillilli> She died,
<Gasku> But you know .. you knew that you were not meant for this society. They told you that you were corpseborn and yet still kept you.
<Llillilli> There is no such thing as 'corpseborn.'! It's just a stupid invention!
<Llillilli> Your sister saw that we were children, like any other children.
<Jimba> If it sets your mind at ease, uncle was quick enough to remind us of our place.
<Gasku> I ... am sorry. I did not know. That was unkind.
<Jimba> I'll add it to your tally.
* Jimba sighs.
<Jimba> I was...hoping this would go better.
<Gasku> I don't know what you want from me.
* Llillilli bites back a reply, and looks at Jimba
<Jimba> I guess this is it.
<Jimba> I wanted to meet you. See who you were.
<Jimba> I've done that.
<Llillilli> Let's go, Jimba.
<Jimba> You can go back to whatever coward's life you've made for yourself.
<Gasku> I ... am in town, with my ... eldest son ... I ... please understand. I am not explaining well.
<Llillilli> If you make trouble for our aunt... You will regret it.
* Llillilli says darkly
* Jimba nods assent.
<Gasku> Trouble? I don't want ... I only learned you existed a moment ago ... what do you mean?
<Jimba> The first thing you said to us is how we're not meant for this society.
<Jimba> But Aunt Shiklazh raised us.
<Jimba> What my sister is saying is that you'd best not cause her any trouble over it.
<Gasku> I ... won't. Please, understand ... this is too much to take in.
* Jimba sighs.
<Jimba> Look.
<Jimba> I don't want anything from you.
<Jimba> But, if you care to know us at all, Aunt Shiklazh can tell you where to find us.
* Gasku nods.
<Gasku> I understand.
<Jimba> If not...well, it's already been two decades.
<Gasku> I should go. I ... won't cause trouble.
<Llillilli> Good.
* Gasku turns and walks away.
* Jimba watches him walk away, much angrier than he thought he'd be.
<Llillilli> I am sorry, brother.

Solos

Daifan tells Chimi and Idovo about seeing Khesh

* Daifan will come home after the wedding and whatever shenanigans ensued, in a more pensive mood than one perhaps might expect from the context
* Idovo and Chimi are sitting by the fire, enjoying some time together since Shira is asleep.
<Idovo> oh hey - how was your friend's wedding?
* Daifan will come and sit
<Daifan> the wedding itself was fine.
* Daifan considers
* Chimi looks a little concerned
<Daifan> but there were a few big surprises that came out of it
<Chimi> Did something happen?
<Daifan> Khesh was there.
* Idovo looks shocked
<Idovo> What? Why?
<Daifan> He's married to one of Katenzhi's new husband's sisters.
<Daifan> they're staying around town for he next week or so.
<Chimi> So he's not in prison, then?
<Daifan> Junan found out for me
* Chimi says dryly
<Daifan> He is not in prison. Just Choradan.
<Idovo> It's not dissimmilar...
<Daifan> mmhmmm
<Idovo> Are you okay? He didn't recognize you, did he?
<Daifan> no one recognized me unles I wanted them to.
<Daifan> and... I'm.. I thiknI am okay?
<Idovo> It must have been a shock.
<Daifan> Yes, very much. I couldn't believe it.
<Daifan> But...what can he do to me here?
<Idovo> I don't know... I guess nothing, unless he was going to try and, I don't know, kill you to get revenge or something.
<Chimi> That seems pretty unlikely...
<Chimi> I mean, revenge for what, anyway? He seems like he came out of everything fine, if he's married to some Choradani rich girl.
<Chimi> well, apart from the Choradani part.
<Daifan> mmm.
<Daifan> I suppose there are things he coudl do or say, if he knew I was here, that could maybe make me lose my job, or make life... awkward
<Idovo> But you could do just the same to him.
* Daifan nods
<Daifan> worse, no doubt
<Daifan> I pity his poor wife >.>
<Idovo> I guess, anyway. I don't know if his new in-laws know all about his past.
<Daifan> mmhmm
<Chimi> He'd be stupid to try and mess with you, anyway, even if he did know you were here.
* Daifan nods
<Daifan> So I think I will just ignore him, if I can
<Idovo> He's only here for a week or so?
<Daifan> That is what he told Junan, thouhg of corse they are looking for new business opportunities
* Idovo nods
<Idovo> Well.. he's hardly likely to come around here.
* Daifan smiles
<Daifan> He'd better not
<Idovo> And probably in Kaskind you can avoid him.
<Daifan> yes, though if he is aroudn Katenzhi, I suppose, that might be more complcaed, but I expect I can manage
<Daifan> It's just tiring, to think about him.
<Chimi> Does Katenzhi know about this?
<Daifan> I have a life here now
* Daifan shakes her head
<Daifan> there was some kind of matter that came up for her and the twins
<Daifan> family things I suspect
<Chimi> Do you think you should tell her, or just keep silent? I don't know if she's the kind who will deal with it better if she's prepared in case it comes up, or if telling her will just mean she's more likely to accidentally let something slip?
<Daifan> I can talk to her, if I need to
* Daifan considers
<Daifan> a little of both? but I can manage. She doesn't need to know every sordid detail to know I don't want to deal with him.
<Idovo> Maybe she'll be too busy to worry about it, since she just got married.
<Daifan> yesh, exactly
<Chimi> Maybe right now, but if he's tied to that family now, who knows if she'll be dealing with him in the future.
<Daifan> mmm
<Daifan> well.
<Idovo> Or maybe they'll just go back to Choradan and you'll never see him again. That'd be okay too.
<Daifan> I can check in with her, perhaps. She might have some sense of how much she'll ever see her inlaw again >.>
* Idovo nods
* Idovo puts his arm around you.
<Idovo> Are you sure you're okay? You want a drink or anything?
* Daifan leans against him and smiles
<Daifan> I would not say no to a drink
* Chimi can pour you some of the wine they were having.
<Daifan> If this had happened, oh... last year, maybe even 6 months ago.... I would be a mess
<Idovo> Well, you've got your feet under you now. He can't do anything to you here.
<Daifan> Now, I just feel....like the life I have here is so right for me, that even he has no power over it
* Chimi nods
* Daifan nods
* Daifan will still take a big drink of wine
<Daifan> you two are such a big part of that
<Daifan> I'm so grateful
<Daifan> Wherever I wander, you are my home
* Idovo smiles
<Idovo> Well, you're always going to have a place here with us.
<Daifan> Good.
<Daifan> fortune to us then... lets drink to that
* Idovo and Chimi will share a toast to that.