Ashnabis session 53
Summary
Session
Session date: May 23, 2021
Fair Cycle date:
Introduction
<AshnabisGM> It's the week after Katenzhi's wedding, and the rains of early Khurar have given way to the even stronger rains of mid-Khurar. In Timiil, where the town is built to handle yearly floods, with houses raised high above the waterline, that's not so bad.
<AshnabisGM> In Kaskind, and especially in parts of Kaskind where people built during last year's droughts, it's a different matter and last summer's optimism has given way to a lot of soggy boots and floors.
<AshnabisGM> Of course, Kaskind is on the smaller north branch of the Kaskos so it isn't quite as bad, but there are still any number of newcomers regretting their house placement, and a few whose houses have been displaced for them by the floodwaters of the Maripak.
<AshnabisGM> Work at the land registry is less about new fos plots than it is finding and marking house plots in the areas near the town, and adjusting for those not bold enough to stick it out through the heaviest rains.
<AshnabisGM> Utus has been busily hiring, or attempting to hire, new agents - with some success, although the fos boom makes this kind of government work less appealing to many with the sorts of skills to navigate the wilderness.
<AshnabisGM> All in all, though, a kind of normalcy has settled back in after all the wedding excitement.
Daifan talks to Batsrau and Irada about their plans
<AshnabisNarrator> Daifan, you have been offering shelter to Batsrau and Irada and their children for the past little while, so your home has been quite crowded (although Shira seems delighted to have other children around, and likewise Aula and Shappan have fun playing with her.)
<AshnabisNarrator> However, you know things can't stay like this for too long. So, you need to talk to them to find out what they want to do, given that it's unlikely they can go back to their home on Ruur anytime soon.
* Irada and her husband have been helping out around the house as much as they can, Batsrau going fishing with Idovo most days, and Irada helping Chimi with the children and animals and food preparation around the house, giving her more time to work on her sewing.
* Daifan will see if she can catch them both in the evening when the kids are down and things aren't too hectic
<AshnabisNarrator> sure, that's fine
* Daifan can put on some tea or something
* Irada and Batsrau are sitting on one of the benches near the fire.
<Daifan> I'm glad to see that you are doing better, now that you are back together
<Batsrau> Thank you... it's been good to have this chance to recover. The children are doing better too.
<Irada> We're truly grateful for the help you've given us. We don't want to impose on your hospitality, but it is appreciated.
<Daifan> we have been happy to have you around, but I dont think any of want this as a permanent solution.
* Irada nods
<Irada> We still hope that one day we can go back to our home, but until then, we must carry on somehow.
<Daifan> but I also know that going back to Ruur is not possble at the moment :/
* Daifan nods
<Batsrau> If it was possible to find a patch of land away from others, where we wouldn't be disturbed, we could try to make a new home there.
* Daifan smiles
<Daifan> Yes, I was just going to say - we have been doing a lot of work lately, to find new places for people who are finding that their homes are suddently part of the swamp
<Irada> My husband has family in Timiil, but we don't wish to live with them. It's not personal - they are good people - but the town is not a comfortable place for us.
<Daifan> and I am sure I can find some place that you could claim for now
* Daifan nods
<Daifan> other than 'away form others, what would you be looking for?
<Daifan> Most people want to live someplace where theyc an farm fos
<Batsrau> Fos isn't of importance to us. Someplace where we can grow and fish for our own food, where we don't need to depend on others, would be best.
* Batsrau looks a bit wary, but continues.
<Batsrau> I and my family are of the Old Folk, also called Hulti... we are not welcome in most places.
* Daifan nods
<Daifan> I guessd it was something like that
* Daifan says sympathetcially
<Batsrau> There are others of our faith who live in an isolated village, deep in the swamp. We could go to them and see if they would take us in.
* Daifan nods
<Daifan> could you get there on your own?
<Irada> The trip may be dangerous, especially with children to watch over... but we have been through worse.
<Daifan> I could help you - I am sure Llillilli and Jimba, at elast, would also be happy to provide escort, and I know they will guard the secret of the village
<Daifan> Katenzhi and Junan as well.... Sister Veznara would not need to be involved.
* Irada nods
<Irada> We don't want to impose further on you...but I think that may be the better choice, rather than trying to start over from scratch.
* Daifan nods
<Daifan> It would hardly be an imposition - it would be good for us to know where ths village is so that we can redirect any attention from it in the future
<Batsrau> They would be wary of any outsiders, but it would be all right if you brought us to within a short distance of it, perhaps?
* Daifan nods
<Daifan> I am sure that would be fine
* Daifan smiles
<Daifan> I can talk to them and see when we could go - do you have a sense of how long the trip would be?
<Daifan> things have been busy lately, so we will need to plan our time
<Batsrau> It has been many years since I've been there, but I think if we were able to go some of the way by boat, it would be .. perhaps five or six days?
* Daifan nods. "We do have a boat :)"
<Daifan> is that five or six days one way?
* Batsrau nods
<Batsrau> If that is too much, even taking us part of the way would be a help.
<Daifan> I will discuss it with my friends, and see what we can do. It shoudl be possible, just a matter of planning. And meanwhile, you are still welcome here.
<Irada> Thank you.
<Irada> It's good for the children to have others to play with... they usually only have one another.
* Daifan nods
<Daifan> yes, it is good for Shira too :)
<Daifan> but while they are asleep... let us relax and have some tea ;)
* Irada and Batsrau will accept the tea gladly.
<AshnabisNarrator> After you've finished your evening tea and are heading over to Moss's house (since your own is a bit crowded currently, you're sleeping there more often), you run into Useir.
* Irada is now known as Useir
* Useir approaches you with a look of frustrated determination on her face.
<Useir> Ah, I was hoping to speak with you.
<Daifan> Mmhmmm - what about?
<Daifan> . o O (Well that mkaes one of us)
<Useir> These strangers you have brought in - not for the first time, I might add - these ones aren't even budal, are they?
<Useir> I know you're soft-hearted, you don't like to turn away those in need, but you have to understand that having them here poses a risk to all of the village.
<Daifan> They will be leaving soon
<Useir> Well... good. They need to leave before their presence is noticed, and brings down ill fortune on us.
<Useir> It's my responsibility to ensure the people of Banei - the ones who belong here - are safe and properly looked after.
<Daifan> I hope you are not questioning my commitment to our community.
<Useir> We have been left alone so far because we don't cause problems. You need to understand that.
<Daifan> I respect its strength
<Daifan> and its capacity
* Useir sighs.
<Useir> If they're leaving soon, then that's fine. We don't need the trouble and attention they could bring from hedal.
<Daifan> They understand that, as do I. meanwhile, they have made themselves very helpful.
<Useir> Just make sure that they don't cause problems.
* Useir turns to head off.
* Daifan gives her a dirty look, and will continue on their way to Moss's place >.>
Veznara and Bitsaar make plans to go back to the Auggi
<AshnabisNarrator> Veznara, plans are proceeding apace for your brother's wedding to Princess Ziftu. Since Galdai wants to have it take place as soon as possible, your parents are busy making arrangements and commissioning appropriate clothing and materials from local craftspeople.
<AshnabisNarrator> No doubt the influx of money is appreciated, but the short deadline is a cause for anxiety, certainly where your mother is concerned at least.
<AshnabisNarrator> She has been keeping you busy in your free time running errands and chasing down loose ends to make sure everything will go perfectly when the big day arrives.
<AshnabisNarrator> After work one day, you are supposed to stop by a particular merchant's shop to pick up an embroidered canopy your parents are having made, in the (not unlikely) event that it rains on the day of the wedding.
<AshnabisNarrator> As you are preparing to leave the Land Registry, you cross paths with Voice Bitsaar, who you understand is now working there as well.
* Useir is now known as Bitsaar
<Bitsaar> Hand Veznara, it's good to see you! How are you doing?
* Veznara smiles at him
<Veznara> Voice Bitsaar! I'm well, thank you. How are you? How are you finding things here at the Registry?
<Bitsaar> Oh, it's good so far. It's strange, but good, to be around other people so much. I think it will take me some time to get used to it, but it's good to be busy.
* Veznara nods
<Veznara> I... hope you'll come to like it.
<Bitsaar> May I walk with you? Are you on your way back to the temple?
<Veznara> Of course - I'd like that! I'm running all around these days, I'm afraid. I'm actually on my way to pick up something from a shop.
<Bitsaar> Oh?
<Veznara> My brother is getting married, so there are all sorts of preparations that have to be made.
<Bitsaar> Ah, congratulations!
<Veznara> Thank you.
<Bitsaar> I didn't know you had family here. Has he recently arrived?
<Veznara> Yes, not too long ago. My parents came with him as well...
<Bitsaar> That's a long trip.
<Veznara> Yes, it is. But it was so good to see them!
<Bitsaar> I can't imagine living that far away from family. Even going to the Auggi was a long distance for me.
<Bitsaar> Speaking of which, I heard they have transferred a new priest to the Auggi, to replace me...
<Veznara> Oh?
* Bitsaar says as he walks with you in the direction of the shop.
* Veznara tries to gauge how he feels about this development.
<Bitsaar> His name is Wimo Laguur, from Hapaan. I don't really know him that well, he's older than me.
* Bitsaar seems to have mixed feelings
<Bitsaar> I heard they got a lot of money from the church to perform repairs, authorized by Voice Elukir, or at least that's what they're saying it's for.
<Veznara> I'm... sorry, Bitsaar.
<Veznara> Hmmm.
<Bitsaar> Well, it is too late to change it now. And I wouldn't have met you otherwise :)
* Veznara smiles back
<Bitsaar> It's strange, though. I mean, that temple could definitely use repairs, it's in rough shape, but also, hardly anyone ever goes there, so it seems weird they'd suddenly decide to renovate it.
<Bitsaar> I don't think it's for repairs, really, or at least not the kind it needs, like patching the roof.
<Veznara> No, I expect it isn't.
* Bitsaar lowers his voice.
<Bitsaar> I think they're going to move those bodies... or do something more to protect them, anyway. Maybe put up some more defenses or just totally wall them off, I don't know.
* Veznara nods
<Bitsaar> I think they got nervous that someone was going to find out what they had there, and that's why they're trying to cover it up.
<Veznara> That seems pretty likely
<Veznara> Where would they take them, though?
<Bitsaar> I don't know. No where else is as safe as the Auggi, if what they're trying to avoid is people noticing what they're doing.
<Veznara> So they might simply seal them off completely?
<Bitsaar> Maybe.
<Bitsaar> If you still want... that is, if you want to try to talk to them, I'd help you, Veznara.
* Bitsaar says quietly and a bit nervously.
<Veznara> Oh, Bitsaar... are you sure? I've already cost you enough...
<Bitsaar> Well, we'd have to be careful not to get caught. If they found out that we went against their orders, we'd be in serious trouble.
* Veznara nods
<Bitsaar> But I think you're right that they're hiding something important. And now... depending on what they do, they might be making sure no one else can find out about it. Only we know.
<Veznara> Do you know when exactly they're planning to carry out these 'repairs'?
<Bitsaar> No. It will take some time, like anything does there, because they'll have to bring in any supplies they need - other than rocks. There are plenty of rocks there.
* Veznara nods
<Veznara> So if we do this, it doesn't have to be *immediately*... but still, sooner rather than later.
* Bitsaar nods
<Veznara> We'd need a boat... I don't think we could bring my friends into this.
<Bitsaar> I should be able to manage that... most of my family are fishers, I can borrow someone's boat for a short while.
<Veznara> Could we make it there and back in one night?
<Bitsaar> We should be able to - obviously it would depend on how long it takes us to do things there, but yes.
<Veznara> We should consider our questions carefully ahead of time...
* Bitsaar nods
* Veznara shudders
<Veznara> I worry about what we'll uncover :/
<Veznara> But...
<Veznara> ...I still think it's important.
<Bitsaar> I think you're right.
* Veznara nods
<Veznara> Yes. I'm sorry to have dragged you into this, Bitsaar... but I'm very glad I'm not alone.
* Bitsaar smiles at that.
<AshnabisNarrator> You arrive at the shop you were looking for.
<Bitsaar> Do you need any help carrying things?
* Bitsaar asks hopefully.
<Veznara> Oh, that would be helpful. If you really don't mind...
<Bitsaar> It's no problem at all.
<Veznara> Thank you.
* Veznara smiles at him gratefully... and affectionately
* Bitsaar will help you bring your large embroidered canopy safely home.
<Bitsaar> Well... I should probably be going...
* Bitsaar says, not entirely convincingly
<Veznara> Well... I suppose so. But I expect we'll see each other again soon.
<Veznara> Thank you, Bitsaar. For everything.
<Bitsaar> Of course.
<Bitsaar> I'll see you soon, then.
<Veznara> It's probably best that we not be seen together too much.. otherwise...
<Bitsaar> I understand...
* Veznara says suddenly
* Veznara blushes
<Bitsaar> Maybe another time, then.
* Veznara smiles, and blushes some more
<Veznara> Yes.
* Bitsaar smiles and will head off, then.
* Veznara watches as he goes, then turns and head into the temple
Llillilli receives a visit from Thulle about promoting her to the next age grade
<AshnabisGM> Ever since Katenzhi's wedding, you've been ill-at-ease, Llillilli. You've never been good at pretending to not be annoyed, but in this case, it is very annoying to have to pretend that your father's surprise appearance doesn't bug you.
<AshnabisGM> But at least you can try to get on with your ordinary affairs. Thelef is very good at distracting you with things, like visits to in-laws and walks along the river and visits to the hifishae every day to care for the little ones. He's very useful that way.
<AshnabisGM> You are just returning from one such trip when you see walking towards you a hith on a great tortoise - not so great as mighty Loeluth, of course. You recognize the hith as Thulle, King Whuthe's heron and ambassador here in Kaskind. Beside Thulle is a younger hith, of the whesef grade judging by their blue stripes.
* Thulle steps off their great steed and stands before you.
* Llillilli regards them
<Thulle> Selleluf, we are honored in your presence.
<Thelef> Thulle, you are welcome here. Can we do anything for you?
<Llillilli> And I yours...
* Llillilli says politely
<Thulle> This is Lelithoefe, my apprentice.
<Llillilli> Pleased to meet you.
* Lelithoefe is a young hith who you don't think you've met before. They seem ... impressed?
<Lelithoefe> Likewise.
<Thulle> We were hoping to find you today so that we could talk freely.
<Llillilli> Oh?
<Llillilli> Well, here I am :)
<Thulle> Perhaps we could go somewhere for privacy?
<Llillilli> Of course...
<Llillilli> (are we closer to the boat or THelef's house)
<AshnabisGM> (probably Thelef's)
* Llillilli looks to Thelef.
<Llillilli> We could go to the house?
<Thelef> Certainly.
* Thelef will lead the way to the house.
<AshnabisGM> You arrive and settle in with your guests.
* Lelithoefe waters and cares for the great tortoise outside before coming in to join you.
<Thulle> So. Your most recent visit to Sulise has caused quite a wave among the People.
* Thelef will get some food and drink for your guests.
<Llillilli> Oh, has it?
<Thulle> Your name is spoken by many.
<Llillilli> If I have started a conversation... that is good then.
<Thulle> The recent actions of Fellis have met with some disdain. You know, I think, that King Whuthe has been unable to take the actions that they might desire, under ideal circumstances.
<Thulle> But you have not been forgotten. And so I am here today with an offer, and a request.
* Llillilli tilts her head to the side.
<Llillilli> Oh?
<Thulle> Over the past weeks, the solars of Sulise, or at least, those most loyal to Fellis, have appeared to be emboldened. But Laelaesi thinks otherwise.
<Thulle> They think that rather, Fellis is shaken. That Loeluth choosing you to rear her child, and your upbraiding of the solars upon your visit, has created the current need to present a position of strength.
* Llillilli nods slowly
<Llillilli> That makes sense.
<Thulle> Like the pufferfish, it is a ruse - but a dangerous one.
<Llillilli> Mm.
<Thulle> In speaking to Laelaesi, they have suggested that we need to strike back. And so I have been travelling.
<Thulle> To speak to those who might be allies.
<Llillilli> Laelaesi suggested that?
* Llillilli is a little surprised, and more impressed
<Thulle> Well ... strike back is perhaps too strong. But to act, yes.
<Llillilli> What manner of action?
<Thulle> Well, that is to be determined still.
* Llillilli nods.
<Llillilli> I would be happy to help, of course.
<Thulle> We do not seek your help. We seek your leadership.
<Llillilli> Oh.
* Llillilli glances at Thelef.
<Thelef> Can you explain more of what you hope for?
<Thulle> Well, as I said, you do have many allies.
<Thulle> The Heptachei stand with us - they remember your kindness and your defense of young Liwhis. Where the Heptachei go, so will many of the People of Ruur as well.
<Thulle> The huwhi of Kaskind are with you, too, of course.
<Thulle> As for the People in Sulise, that is trickier. There are some who fear war, either war between humans and People, or among the People themselves.
* Llillilli nods again.
<Thulle> I do not think a violent solution is desired by most.
<Thulle> But there are others, who speak ... of whaehael.
* Thulle uses a word you haven't heard of, and isn't even Hithaeli that you are familiar with, and seems to be rather embarrassed, if you don't misjudge their countenance.
* Llillilli frowns.
<Llillilli> I am not... familiar with that.
<Thulle> I'm not surprised.
<Thulle> It is an old word, hard to translate ... in your tongue, you might say ... miracle.
* Thulle says, again looking awkward, the Aummesh word slipping uneasily from their mouth.
<Llillilli> I don't understand. THey want... what?
* Thelef looks puzzled as well.
<Thulle> They see you, or they see the things happening to and around you, as ... evidence of the need for change, perhaps.
<Thulle> I know your mentor Shulilae does not believe in the idea - that all that happens in the world is natural, and that we should not separate the natural from the unnatural.
<Thulle> But so, too, Fellis speaks against the idea that anything that has happened to you is extraordinary.
<Thulle> So whatever Fellis says and believes, we should think very seriously about taking the opposite position.
<Llillilli> That seems accurate
<Thulle> I propose that I do not know what a "miracle" is, but that it is a way to understand and talk about things, that is very inspirational.
<Thulle> So, for a huwhi to be a selleluf, or for anyone - human or People - to be chosen to foster Loeluth's spawn, these are, at the very least, exceptional.
* Llillilli nods.
<Thulle> And that there are many who, having been so inspired, would take up your cause, and further embolden the King.
<Llillilli> I was... very honored.
<Llillilli> I'm not sure I know how to inspire people though.
<Llillilli> On purpose anyway.
<Llillilli> I barely understand why I was chosen for either of those things.
<Thulle> Well ... I am a heron. It is my role to speak the mighty words, tell the great tales across all our communities. Mine, and those who would assist me.
* Thulle leans in the direction of Lelithoefe.
<Lelithoefe> We would speak of your deeds to many lands.
<Llillilli> Oh. Well, that seems fine.
<Thulle> And I bear in mind too that there are many People from other kingdoms than Sulise. They have not heard of you, but neither are they beholden to Fellis.
* Llillilli nods.
<Thulle> I know it is not your custom to speak mighty words. But even those few words you have spoken at court, retold boldly, can have great effect.
<Llillilli> And you would do that?
<Lelithoefe> We all would.
<Lelithoefe> Forgive me selleluf, for I do not know you, but you are an inspiration to me, and others like me.
* Llillilli smiles self consciously
<Llillilli> I am... glad, then.
<Llillilli> I'm sorry, I'm just... not used to that.
* Llillilli laughs awkwardly
* Thelef puts his arm around you, encouragingly.
* Llillilli leans against him.
<Thelef> You are more influential than you know :)
<Thulle> We would do nothing without your approval, of course. So far, all we have done is to talk, make gentle inquiries. But what we have heard gives us some hope that yes, our allies would be many.
<Llillilli> I do want to help people. *The* people, and the huwhi.
<Llillilli> If I have allies like you to guide me...
* Llillilli smiles at the hith then Thelef :>
<Thulle> You do. And indeed, the King too, supports you, even if in their position they cannot say everything they would like to.
<Llillilli> Then many things seem possible
<Thulle> So, to begin, I have a proposal, if you are interested.
<Thulle> I would propose that we announce that you are to be raised to the grade of lethillae. I think - I am confident - that Laelaesi would do it, despite the prohibition.
* Llillilli grins and nods.
<Llillilli> Laelaesi is a brave person.
<Thulle> That would legitimize your claim, to be able to speak on political matters with authority.
<Llillilli> I would do this.
<Thulle> Laelaesi is indeed brave.
<Thulle> They love you, and that may overcome their natural fear of repercussions. Even Fellis would have a hard time disciplining them.
<Thulle> They are too ancient and revered among too many.
* Llillilli nods.
<Llillilli> When would this happen?
<Thulle> Soon, I would hope. We would need to determine where we would do it, to have maximum effect, also.
<Llillilli> If it is announced beforehand... I hate to think it, but we should make sure nothing happens to Laelaesi.
<Thulle> Yes, I would work with Fifelus and Hillisi to ensure their security.
<Llillilli> Good, good.
<Thulle> Would you want to do it in Sulise? In Kaskind? Ruur?
<Llillilli> I almost expect that they would try something against me but... I can handle myself
* Llillilli thinks for a moment.
<Llillilli> I think that Ruur would be a good choice... symbolic?
<Llillilli> Does that make sense?
* Thulle considers.
<Thulle> Perhaps at the statues of Soesoe and Pappe
<Llillilli> Oh, yes.
* Thulle seems very pleased.
<Thulle> A public display - with supporters gathered - and, although I know it is not your preference, some words of strength and defiance from you, carefully crafted, to be spread among the People, to gather support.
<Thulle> We could help you ... craft the right words, if you wanted.
<Llillilli> Yes, please.
* Llillilli nods.
<Thulle> And perhaps we may even hope for another ... miracle.
<Llillilli> Perhaps...
<Llillilli> :)
<Thulle> Well, we will take our leave for now. We have many preparations to make.
<Lelithoefe> Thank you, selleluf.
<Llillilli> Thank you as well.
Jimba's warehouse catches fire, and Liraula shows up to ask if he wants the ship he stole
<AshnabisGM> Jimba, in the wake of Katenzhi's wedding, and all the drama that ensued, it's finally starting to settle down. You'd be lying to yourself if you said you hadn't been thinking about your father, who as far as you know is still in Kaskind somewhere, but you've resolved not to be bothered by it. Much.
<AshnabisGM> You're by yourself this evening, well, just you and the animals; Llillilli is off with Thelef and her in-laws and Katenzhi is off with Gefraz. The rain has let up for a bit, thankfully.
<AshnabisGM> You're just settling down into your bunk on the Menagerie when you hear some loud coughing from outside the ship and then a bump as someone or something staggers against the hull.
* Jimba will go check it out.
<AshnabisGM> You emerge to see Aptan, wheezing and almost doubled over.
* Aptan looks awful and smells of smoke.
<Aptan> The warehouse ... fire ...
* Jimba quickly moves to help him.
<Jimba> Aptan! Are you all right?
* Aptan coughs heavily, trying to strain out a nod amidst gasping for breath.
<Jimba> Take your time, catch your breath.
<Aptan> There's a fire ... I got out and ran here ...
<Jimba> Where?
* Jimba asks, pretty sure he knows.
<Aptan> The warehouse ...
<Jimba> Fuck! Will you be okay here?
* Aptan nods.
<Jimba> (How far away is the warehouse?)
<AshnabisGM> (not far, really - it's all in the general vicinity of the docks. Just a short dash)
* Jimba runs off towards the warehouse.
<AshnabisGM> You speed off towards the warehouse just a couple hundred yards away, and find the northeast corner of the building firmly ablaze. It's evening but not too late, and so there is a gathered group of onlookers standing at a distance.
<Jimba> (Is anyone doing anything?)
<AshnabisGM> The onlookers are looking on, as they do. But there do appear to be some people actually rushing in one direction or another, though the scene is pretty chaotic so you're not sure who's helping and who's just fleeing. At least no one appears to be looting!
<Jimba> Hey! Grab buckets, get a line going! Do you want the whole docks to go up?
<AshnabisGM> At your urging, some people move to assist you.
* Jimba dashes into the not on fire portion of the building to see if there's anyone still inside.
<AshnabisGM> As you consider what else to do, a young woman scurries from the direction of the fort. She waves her hands and in a moment, the fire is quenched.
* Thulle is now known as Zai
* Zai is a thin, fair Choradani woman with her hair wrapped around her head tightly. She wears a thin leather jacket, trousers, and fine gloves.
* Jimba breathes a sigh of relief.
<Jimba> (Was there anyone inside?)
<AshnabisGM> (you don't know but you *think
* Aptan is smart enought that he would have surely said something, or tried to help before leaving himself)
<Jimba> (kk)
<Jimba> (Do I recognize this Zai person at all?)
<AshnabisGM> (nope)
<Zai> Are you the owner?
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> I am. Thank you for your assistance.
<Zai> Lucky we got it when we did. Another few minutes and it could have spread. What do you keep in here?
<Jimba> [Whatever trade goods he keeps in there].
<Zai> All right. I'll write this up and when I file it and we'll send you the invoice to pay.
<Jimba> (Is that a standard thing?)
<AshnabisGM> (you actually have no idea)
<AshnabisGM> (you've never heard of such an operation in Kaskind)
<Jimba> I'm sorry?
<Zai> I am Zai Jimojures of the Blazes Regiment. We got a report of this fire, I came out, now, you have no fire.
* Jimba offers his hand.
<Jimba> Jimba Ghughife. Who are the Blazes Regiment?
<Zai> Last year, during the drought, the General thought it would be useful to have some central protection against fires in the town.
<Jimba> Stands to reason.
<Zai> You can take it up with her if you like.
<Jimba> I might, but I'm not arguing at the moment. I've just never heard of you.
<Jimba> It *was
* lucky you were here. Thank you.
<Zai> Do you need any further assistance? The fire appears to be fully out now. Thankfully, we've had a lot of rain.
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> Yeah, strange that a fire even started, but, I suppose, accidents happen.
<Zai> Yes, I suppose.
<Jimba> Can I ask how much this is going to cost me?
<Zai> Shouldn't be more than twenty-five. Everything was fairly contained.
<Jimba> That's...not cheap. But I suppose better than a total loss. And, luckily, no one seems to have been hurt.
<Zai> All right then. Have a good evening.
<Jimba> (Does she look like a soldier, or just a civilian employee?)
<AshnabisGM> (just a civilian, you think. Not a sentinel, for sure.)
<Jimba> You too. Perhaps I'll see you around the fort. Thank you again.
* Zai departs.
* Jimba will spend some time to make doubly sure everyone is okay, try to get an employee to stand watch for the time being, then go find Aptan.
<AshnabisGM> The warehouse is definitely damaged, but surely not irreparably so. Thankfully the rains have been so heavy that even though it isn't raining at the moment, everything is a bit waterlogged and so nothing could spread too badly. No one else seems to have been in or near the building.
<AshnabisGM> But there is one curious thing.
<AshnabisGM> You're not an expert but it seems to you that the fire started on the outside of the building, which kept it from burning all the wares inside - but also raises the question of how it started.
* Jimba figured as much.
<AshnabisGM> You head back to the Menagerie, where Aptan seems to have recovered somewhat.
<Aptan> Is it ... how is it?
<Jimba> It's...fine. Repairs shouldn't be too bad, and nothing important was damaged. Apparently we're going to have to pay the fort for help in putting it out, but that's...acceptable.
<Jimba> How are you?
<Aptan> I'm all right. I was just minding my business when smoke started to come in through the wall.
<Jimba> You didn't see anything?
<Aptan> No, I'm sorry.
<Jimba> Hey, it's all right. It happens.
<AshnabisGM> As you talk with Aptan, you see a familiar face striding towards you along the harbor walk.
* Zai is now known as Liraula
* Liraula has her long gray hair completely disheveled, and seems to have come here in great haste.
* Liraula sees that you and Aptan are all right and seems relieved at that.
<Liraula> Well this isn't good. Anyone hurt?
<Jimba> No, everyone seems to be all right.
<Jimba> (Did I know she was in town?)
<AshnabisGM> (well, you would have assumed she was in Timiil, where she and Bohin live)
<Jimba> (That's what I was assuming, yes :P )
<Jimba> To what do we owe the pleasure, captain?
<Liraula> Well, my people told me a property of concern to me was on fire, I thought I should check in on that.
<Liraula> So I ran over there, saw it was out, and then I came here.
<Jimba> Word travels fast.
<Jimba> I just meant I didn't know you were in town at the moment.
<Liraula> I wasn't. I ran here.
<Jimba> (How far is that?)
<AshnabisGM> (couple miles)
* Jimba whistles.
<Jimba> Aptan, why don't you go lay down in one of the hammocks?
* Aptan nods.
<Aptan> Thanks, I think I will.
* Aptan goes belowdecks.
* Jimba nods and gives him a smile, then his expression becomes grim as he turns back to Liraula.
<Jimba> So, someone set my damn warehouse on fire.
<Liraula> Seems so.
<Liraula> You know they've been displeased with you.
* Liraula assesses the situation frankly.
<Jimba> I would imagine so.
<Liraula> I mean, it's not my place to tell you who to kill and who not to kill. But when you go up against the second-best pirate on the seas, you should probably expect some vengeance.
<Jimba> Does he even really count as the second best anymore?
<Jimba> Also, I'd argue he's the worst.
<Liraula> Don't underestimate him. He's dangerous when he's angry and wounded.
<Jimba> He's dangerous at any time.
<Liraula> And you've been doing a lot of wounding. You have gone up against the Cormorants, what, now, twice? More?
<Jimba> Three times, I think?
* Liraula sighs heavily.
<Jimba> Though I prefer to think of it as they've gone up against common decency, but, sure, whatever.
<Liraula> I have to say, this doesn't seem quite like Yeggun's style.
<Jimba> Oh?
<Liraula> Well, you're alive still.
<Jimba> It does feel...pettier than his style, for sure.
<Liraula> I figured, he'd bide his time and then come right at you. So you might try practicing with your blades a little more.
<Jimba> I'm not terrible, but I'll take that to heart.
<Liraula> This seems ... angry, random, but also too anonymous. I'm not saying it's not Yeggun, just that normally when he comes at you, he wants to be seen doing it. Probably singing that damn song.
* Liraula hums a couple bars of 'Lords of the Bay'.
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> I mean, I guess I've pissed off others.
<Liraula> Oh, anyone in particular?
<Jimba> I work for the fort. That brings some issues. I work with you, that brings others.
<Jimba> Maybe I should switch up the for and with on those. ;)
<Liraula> I'm not particular about your language. But I do want to know what risks I'm taking on.
<Liraula> Not that I'm complaining having your spare ship you stole tucked away. Yeggun is a loudmouth but he knows a fine ship. But, ahhh ... we should talk about what happens next.
<Jimba> Oh?
<Liraula> I mean ... if he would come at you like this, he might come at me. Maybe. Or if this is someone else - well, I do care about what happens to my people, Jimba.
<Jimba> I never thought you didn't. But I figure I can set a guard or two for the time being.
<Jimba> Like you said, this was clumsy and random. I'll keep an eye out, but unless it escalates, I don't think it's more concerning than that.
<Liraula> Hmm. And what are the guards going to do, other than die?
<Jimba> Depends on the guards, now, doesn't it?
<Jimba> What would you have me do otherwise?
<Liraula> Well ... we should find out who did this. I mean, specifically who did this. I wonder whether this came from the man himself, or was more ... personal.
<Liraula> I heard you killed some people on Ruur.
* Jimba freezes a moment, then nods.
<Jimba> They were keeping slaves, Liraula.
<Liraula> I'm not saying they weren't.
<Jimba> Yeggun and his people have lost it.
<Liraula> I'm not defending him. I'm explaining how there could be a lot of people trying to get back at you.
<Liraula> If they're willing to take slaves, they're willing to kill some guards you would hire to protect your warehouse.
<Jimba> (Hey, was Kayibir there?)
<AshnabisGM> (at the warehouse? no, only Aptan was inside.)
<Jimba> Right, but, again...what do I do? I'll look into who might have done this, but it feels like you're telling me "Why wear armor when people are just going to try to stab you?"
<Jimba> (I should look for her after this)
<Liraula> We could get Hishkobal involved. A reckoner may not give satisfaction to either party, but does tend to reduce the collateral damage.
<Liraula> Or we could just find out who did this and kill them.
<Jimba> ...Are those mutually exclusive?
<Jimba> Hishkobal could help me find the guilty party.
<Jimba> I'd prefer not to have to solve this with violence, but, if it's the Cormorant, I may have little choice.
<Liraula> Yes, but if you go through Hishkobal he really is going to insist that you not just go and kill the perpetrator anyway. Kind of defeats the purpose.
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> Deescalation would be my preference, yes.
<Liraula> Let me put it this way: whether you like it or not, I'm going to find out who set this fire and why. My nephew could have died.
* Jimba nods.
<Liraula> But I'm not going to take any action that would make things worse.
<Liraula> Similarly, I presume that Yeggun has lost kin in all this, maybe even some at your blade. I don't attribute the same rationality to him. But his people aren't all monsters.
<Jimba> Given that I'm housing his niece, I think my stance on that is pretty clear.
<Liraula> Yes, well, he may not see it as "housing", but I understand.
* Jimba nods.
<Liraula> Let me have my people make some quiet inquiries. Someone will be at a bar tonight or tomorrow, talking about who did this and why.
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> Would you prefer we find other accommodations for Aptan in the meantime?
<Jimba> The Menagerie is emptier these days, and it's at least as comfortable as the warehouse.
<Liraula> I don't know if he's truly safe at either place. But I will say this - I do trust you to take care of him, and keeping him close to you makes me feel better.
* Jimba nods.
<Liraula> As for this ship you, uhh, liberated ... what do you want me to do with it?
<Jimba> I'm...not sure. What do *you* want to do with it? You said yourself it's a fine ship.
<Liraula> Seems like a shame to sink it.
<Jimba> Right.
<Jimba> But it also makes whoever sails it a target.
<Liraula> It does. I could disguise it ... that would help.
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> Certainly you have people looking to captain their own ship.
<Liraula> Timiil's too small a place for it to stay a total secret. New ships don't appear out of nowhere. And this is clearly a locally built vessel.
<Jimba> Right.
<Liraula> If you're okay with me putting one of my other people as captain, that's fine.
<Liraula> I didn't know if you wanted to claim and name her for yourself.
<Jimba> Honest question: would you think that was a good idea?
<Liraula> She's a fine and fast vessel ... not that the Menagerie is bad, mind you, but she's not built for that kind of speed.
<Liraula> You're entitled to her if you want.
<Liraula> But that would be incitement.
<Jimba> That's not the question I'm asking, Liraula.
<Jimba> I know I took the ship. But *taking
* the ship, captaining and crewing her...changes things.
<Liraula> I think it would attract attention. I can disguise her all I want, but any ship you're captaining that comes out of nowhere, well, you're basically saying, I stole this ship and that's mine and fuck you Yeggun.
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> What would you do in my situation?
<Liraula> Depends what your goal is.
<Liraula> You sank half his fleet, kidnapped Aptan, kidnapped Kayibir, and killed a bunch of his people personally ... maybe you're looking to solidify a reputation, in which case, you should definitely take the ship.
<Liraula> But if you're looking to, what was your word, de-escalate ... well then, probably not.
<Liraula> But de-escalate, what that means is, Yeggun lives, Yeggun keeps his fleet.
* Jimba thinks about that for a moment.
<Jimba> I don't think Yeggun being around is good for anyone.
<Jimba> Including his people.
* Liraula nods.
* Jimba nods decisively.
<Jimba> I think I'm going to have to take that ship.
<Jimba> This may change some things for me with the fort, but I think I can get some of our people in place there so it doesn't totally disrupt those contacts for us.
<Liraula> All right then. She's yours. Let me outfit her for you, you can think of names and colours and let me know. And I'll find out who set the fire and maybe we can work with Hishkobal on that at least.
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> Thank you, Liraula.
<Liraula> Keep safe, now.
<Jimba> Smooth sailing, captain.
Junan meets with Ghendalt about the goods from Sednidze
<AshnabisGM> Junan, you have been very busy getting up to speed in your new position. But you know that when the Senator calls with a dinner invite, you don't say no.
<AshnabisGM> So you head over this evening to Ghendalt's house for what you expect will be an interesting evening of conversation, as always.
<Junan> (and the wine is always good too)
* AshnabisGM is now known as Ghendalt
* Ghendalt smiles broadly as he sees you.
<Ghendalt> Well if it isn't our resident spymaster!
<Junan> I cant be that good of one if you're referring to me as one, can I?
* Ghendalt laughs.
<Ghendalt> Have no fear, I'm very good at keeping dark secrets.
<Junan> Please, I'm sure this is far from the darkest secret out there.
<Junan> really only a light grey, to be honest.
<Ghendalt> How have things been?
<Junan> Far to busy to my liking really. Its hard to slack when one is tasked to delve into all these secrets
<Ghendalt> You poor thing.
* Ghendalt remarks unsympathetically.
<Junan> Does the entire council know about me, or is this just you and the General
<Ghendalt> Not just the two of us. But not many more.
<Ghendalt> The General knew of our relationship and rightly felt she should disclose, even if you didn't do so yourself.
<Junan> Like you wouldnt have coaxed it out of me with a few glasses anyway... really she was just saving time.
<Ghendalt> I'm sure she knew that as well.
* Ghendalt grabs a glass of wine as a servant comes by with a tray.
<Junan> So you've already been caught up on what I've been up do, how are you doing these days>
<Junan> ?
<Ghendalt> I'm very well, thank you. I've also been busy, with selling the fruits of your labours.
<Junan> I hope that's proven profitable for everyone.
<Ghendalt> We are about to do very well for ourselves.
<Ghendalt> The carved divination bones, that your friend is interested in - unless she's got a lot more wealth than I think she does, it will be hard to match the offer.
<Ghendalt> Four thousand for those alone - I have a buyer ready to go.
<Junan> I doubt thats the case, but I'm sure she'll appreciate her share of the profits
<Ghendalt> As for that shirt you were interested in - well, that's also very pricey. More than your share, divided across your group. So you'd need to come up with a great deal on your own, to compensate me and your colleagues.
<Ghendalt> The only thing that occurred to me is, perhaps the General would like to invest in her new employee.
<Junan> well if she wants to, I wont stop her. I have a small nest egg, growing bigger with my new position, but I doubt its enough.
<Ghendalt> I mentioned it to her, she wasn't opposed to the idea.
<Ghendalt> It was in the same conversation that I mentioned those hith figurines, which you had suggested she might buy as a sort of token to give as a political gift to the Hith.
<Junan> Just trying to expand the market. Did she bite?
<Ghendalt> She was curious, but ultimately not interested. According to her, things are volatile with the hith right now, and not in a way that would make a gift useful.
<Ghendalt> Apparently it has something to do with your friend - perhaps you should ask her?
<Junan> My friend or the General?
<Ghendalt> I was referring to your friend. Apparently she's been causing a stir in the hith kingdom.
<Junan> If she's been causing a stir, its not because she wants to, its because she's not the kind of person to be spit on and just sit there and take it.
* Ghendalt nods.
<Ghendalt> Makes sense.
<Ghendalt> Anyway, the general seemed to feel that the hith, overall, were weakened compared to last year by all this internal business. So that there was no need at the moment to intervene directly - that in fact, a gift would almost certainly anger one faction or another.
<Junan> Dont give them a grievence to align themselve to while they work things out themselves. That was my same opinion on Charadip.
<Ghendalt> Right, right.
<Ghendalt> In any case, assuming that we're selling the divination bones, and that the general will buy the shirt for you, I think we can clear fourteen thousand total.
<Junan> at least is just a small total
<Ghendalt> I'll make the arrangements then?
<Junan> maybe I'll use the funds for a vacation back to Daligash, visit the family
<Junan> yes please do
<Ghendalt> Look at you, a brand new job and already wanting to take a vacation!
<Junan> I work hard
* Junan takes a drink of wine
* Ghendalt nods.
<Ghendalt> So you do.
<Ghendalt> Other than that, what have you and your team been up to?
<Junan> oh this and that. visited Ruur again, had a wedding.
* Ghendalt nods.
<Ghendalt> I hear that Princess Galdai's granddaughter is being married soon, into Veznara's family.
<Ghendalt> I'm sure she's thrilled.
* Ghendalt says inscrutably.
<Junan> I mean why wouldn't any Tazi family NOT want to be wed into the royal family
<Ghendalt> An excellent question.
<Junan> although I've met Galdai, and she creeps me out.
<Ghendalt> You are, as always, very perceptive.
<Junan> I just assume you've also had the pleasure
<Ghendalt> Well, I've known her, or of her, since long before I ever came to Kaskind, of course.
<Junan> and your honest opinion of her?
<Ghendalt> She's extraordinarily dangerous. But also extremely afraid - of what, I don't know ... which makes her even more dangerous.
<Junan> that part I've been told before, the dangerous part.
<Ghendalt> I know what I'm doing here - making a lot of money and enjoying my senescence collecting things I'd never see in a lifetime sitting in a manor house in the city.
<Ghendalt> Her, though, I have no idea.
<Junan> Its not hard to guess... away from prying eyes, lots of fos readily available, bringing in corpseborn who used magic... some sort of very unethical magical research.
<Junan> the end goal?
* Junan shrugs
<Ghendalt> Right, exactly.
<Junan> If I mange to find out, and if you really want to know, I'll tell you.
* Ghendalt nods.
<Ghendalt> Appreciate that.
Katenzhi, Gefraz and Bivizmi consider their new living arrangements
<AshnabisNarrator> Katenzhi, you have been busy with getting settled into the house Gefraz has built for you and the family you'll eventually share.
<AshnabisNarrator> Although it isn't completely finished yet, the main dwelling is ready enough for you to move your belongings in, and Gefraz has also brought his possessions and furniture to help make the place more comfortable.
<AshnabisNarrator> It still needs a lot of work to make it feel like home, but it's getting there.
* Katenzhi doesn't have a whole lot of possessions other than a few chests of clothes and souvenirs. And maybe a decent liquor collection.
* Gefraz is showing you and Bivizmi around to see the work that's ongoing.
<Gefraz> As you can see, the outbuildings - a workshop for Bivizmi, a studio for you, and so on - are still under construction, but they will likely be finished within a couple of weeks.
<Katenzhi> This place is huge...
<Bivizmi> It's looking great... I'm looking forward to being able to have my own space to work in.
* Katenzhi smiles and takes her hand.
<Katenzhi> Thank you, Gefraz.
<Gefraz> The plot of land is pretty large, and we can always build onto the house, or add more buildings, if it turns out that we need more space.
* Bivizmi smiles
<Katenzhi> I don't even know what I'm gonna do with my room, let alone the rest of the house.
<Bivizmi> Um... assuming Sarduvos and I do get married, what will our living arrangements be then?
<Gefraz> Well, does he stay at the fort, or how does that work for him?
<Bivizmi> Under normal circumstances, I think he's expected to stay at the Fort when he's on duty, which as I understand is for several weeks at a time, and then he gets a week off.
<Bivizmi> Obviously if there's some kind of problem, that all goes by the wayside, but usually he would only be home maybe a week out of any given month.
<Bivizmi> Is the house going to be big enough for that, or should we plan to build a separate place nearby, or... what do you think is best?
<Katenzhi> Where does he stay now when he's not at the fort?
<Bivizmi> He has a room in a house that several of the Sentinels share, just near the fort. But I assume he'd want to move out of that if he could.
<Katenzhi> Hmmm... yeah
<Gefraz> Well, it's really up to you what you'd prefer. Like I said, there's enough room here that if we wanted to add another part of the house, or even a whole separate house, we could, and you'd be welcome to do that.
<Katenzhi> Up to him too, I guess. Whether or not he'd be comfortable living here.
* Bivizmi nods
<Bivizmi> I guess we can see, but it's good to know what the options are.
* Katenzhi nods.
<Gefraz> I'm planning to go and get Divrola and Ghesmin next month, if that's possible. I wanted to allow some time for my family to get occupied with other matters, and lose interest in us.
<Gefraz> I'll need your help, Kat, to teleport there and bring them back here. Is that all right with you?
<Katenzhi> Of course. Shouldn't be a problem. I've been there now.
<Gefraz> Thank you.
<Katenzhi> I would bake her a welcome cake or something but... that would end poorly.
* Gefraz laughs.
<Gefraz> I think she'll be happy enough just to be here. But maybe we can buy a cake.
<Katenzhi> Yeah, let's go with that option.
<Katenzhi> Are you both still doing ok with this?
<Bivizmi> It's a big adjustment, but I think so. I like the new workshop and I'm looking forward to getting set up there.
<Gefraz> I'm a bit anxious about bringing Divrola here - it's been a long time since we've been together. I guess I worry that maybe it will be a difficult adjustment. I believe it's still what both of us want, but without being able to talk to her regularly, it's hard to know.
* Katenzhi nods.
<Katenzhi> I'll do what I can to make her feel welcome.
<Gefraz> Thank you.
<Gefraz> Um, how are things with your family, since the wedding? Are your parents planning to stay in town for very much longer, or will they be heading out on their travels again?
<Katenzhi> Oh... it's... complicated. There's been a kind of... family shakeup. I'm not sure how it will pan out at the moment. I was hoping once I was safely married off they'd wash their hands of me for a while but now I don't know.
<Gefraz> Oh? Do you want to talk about it?
<Katenzhi> It's not really my story to tell. I appreciate it, but things are kind of fragile at the moment. Maybe once they're more settled.
<Gefraz> Okay, that's understandable.
<Katenzhi> I think it will work out. Just need to wait and see
<Bivizmi> If you do want to talk, I'm - we're here for you.
* Katenzhi squeezes her hand.
<Katenzhi> I know. Thank you.
* Bivizmi gives your hand a squeeze in return
<Katenzhi> I'll be fine. It's my cousins I'm worried about.
<Katenzhi> And now with me being here I worry I won't be there for them when they need me.
<Gefraz> Well, we're not so far that you can't go see them whenever you want.
<Katenzhi> Yeah. That's true.
<Gefraz> Will Jimba be okay, now that he's alone on the ship? or wait, what am I talking about - he has his animals to keep him company :)
* Katenzhi laughs.
<Katenzhi> Yeah, Jimba is never alone.
<Katenzhi> And Llillilli has her own small family now. Everything is changing.
<Bivizmi> You will always be their family, though. That doesn't change.
<Katenzhi> I know. I'm just not great at change. I'll live.
<Katenzhi> And I'm glad I have you both to help.
* Bivizmi leans over, a bit shyly, to give you a kiss. Gefraz politely doesn't stare.
* Katenzhi kisses her back.
* Katenzhi will then give Gefraz a hug also.
* Gefraz hugs you back.
<Katenzhi> So do you think Divrola will need help with Ghesmin? I don't know much about babies, but they can't be much different than taking care of baby hippos, right?
<Gefraz> I feel like they are almost certainly less work than baby hippos, but I admit I'm not an expert.
<Katenzhi> They would almost have to be.
<Gefraz> People would never have more than one if they were ;)
<Katenzhi> Although you probably can't toss them in the river when they get underfoot.
<Gefraz> I can only imagine that is frowned upon, yes.
<Katenzhi> I'll keep that in mind.
* Katenzhi grins.
<Gefraz> I guess I don't know how she'll feel about it. She's been managing on her own this far, and I don't know whether she'll want a lot of help or not. But if she does, there are several of us around who can give her a hand.
* Katenzhi nods.
<Katenzhi> Whatever you guys need, let me know. I'll do whatever I can.
<Gefraz> Thank you - it's appreciated.
<Katenzhi> Hey, you're the one who's putting an honest to god roof over my head. It's the least I can do.
<Bivizmi> I'm happy to help too, if necessary. I'm not amazing with kids, but I can make sure they don't manage to get in harm's way at least :)
<Gefraz> That's the most important think, I think :)
<Katenzhi> Well, she won't be able to get into too much trouble with eight eyes watching her. Probably.
<Gefraz> I feel like that's probably not true, but I guess we'll find out.
<Gefraz> Especially once, perhaps, there are more of them.
<Bivizmi> They could outnumber us someday :p
* Katenzhi looks a bit apprehensive at that thought, but nods.
* Bivizmi says jokingly.
* Katenzhi laughs.
<Katenzhi> Well, that depends on how well we all get along I guess.
* Katenzhi says, also jokingly.
<Gefraz> But at that point, they basically take care of themselves, right? You can get the older ones to watch the younger ones.
<Bivizmi> As the youngest in a big family... hah.
<Bivizmi> You can try that but sometimes the older ones will decide it's fun to test 'potions' on the younger ones. At least in my family.
<Bivizmi> I was sick for a week :p
<Katenzhi> My parents never really had me watch my cousins, but they probably knew I would have been too busy hanging around the deck hands to notice if they were drowning or being eaten by a gator.
<Gefraz> I guess we always had a nanny, or maids keeping an eye on us, when I was young.
<Gefraz> We couldn't get into *too* much trouble.
<Gefraz> No gators, also.
<Katenzhi> I imagine there are fewer of them inland.
<Bivizmi> That does change the child-care factor slightly.
<Katenzhi> I'm sure we'll figure it out.
* Gefraz nods
<Gefraz> I think it will work out. And if it doesn't... there's always the gators :p
* Katenzhi laughs
