Ashnabis session 56
Summary
Session
Session date: July 18, 2021
Fair Cycle date:
Introduction
<AshnabisGM> In Pesme, the winter rains abate, and the sun dries the muddy paths of Kaskind, at least a few hours a day.
<AshnabisGM> The bootmakers and roofers may be a little sad to see the rainy season abate, but even the farmers have had enough for now. Time to get on with the growing season and then the first harvest.
<AshnabisGM> Three new full boats of arrivals have come from Choradan in the past week or two - you're not sure whether by coincidence or design. A few sentinels, but mostly ordinary folk, either claiming lands or building new lives.
<AshnabisGM> Bubun, too, in great numbers - from Choradan, destined for local work, or from Hasmala, to be sent out to the countryside plantations at Zhumne. Corpses work no matter the rain.
<AshnabisGM> There are some grand events underway - a royal wedding, no less! It has been arranged with some haste, but the marriage of Ziftu of the Ebesnata to Sumurt of the Kezondo is to take place shortly. You're not invited (except Veznara), of course. Though very few are.
<AshnabisGM> But there are many plans and projects ongoing here in this new city, and not all for the good. What peace prevails is as slippery as the rain-soaked roads.
Katenzhi learns from Oignestros that Sulazh is dead
<AshnabisGM> Katenzhi, so far your strange new family, Bivizmi and Gefraz and Divrola and Ghesmin, are settling in well enough. You all had the good sense to ensure that there is enough space between you all. And everyone has their own business to take care of, which means that at least everyone is occupied most of the time.
<AshnabisGM> Divrola and Ghesmin seem to be settling in well enough other than the wet. Which is understandable enough - you've lived here all your life and you still feel very Choradani, every rainy season.
<AshnabisGM> You are out doing some work in your herb garden on the shady north side of the house one morning when you hear heavy footsteps and panting come up the path.
<AshnabisGM> Turning, you see Oignestros running at quite a clip, for one so large.
<Katenzhi> ...Oignestros?
<Oignestros> Friend, friend! Your white lady!
* Katenzhi will get up and hurry over
<Katenzhi> What happened?
<Oignestros> The new lady, the old lady, on the land by the trees.
<Katenzhi> What about her?
<Katenzhi> Is she ok?
<Oignestros> Your lands, you let her work.
<Oignestros> I found her this dawn, on the lands I was a-farming.
<Katenzhi> (...had we not told Oignestors about the deal? I would have assumed we did.)
<AshnabisGM> You did, of course. What he understands about commerce is ... not as clear to you.
* Oignestros is clearly deeply agitated, and not making total sense.
<Katenzhi> Yes, we let her use the land. What's wrong? Slow down and take a breath.
<Oignestros> At first I thought, hoped she was a-sleeping.
<Oignestros> Lying upon your pale flowers, her white hair against the green mosses, peaceful.
<Katenzhi> What are you... is she...
<Oignestros> I took her gently, gently, up and away from that place. To my home where now she is a-laying.
<Katenzhi> Oh fuck...
<Katenzhi> Is she alive?
<Oignestros> I tried, but there was nothing I could do. I knew it, her cold against my warm.
<Oignestros> But then I was not a-knowing what to be done. So I come.
* Katenzhi goes very pale
<Katenzhi> We... we need to tell Biv...
<Oignestros> Where is she?
<Katenzhi> (Good question. Is she around the house?)
<AshnabisGM> (let's say yes, for simplicity)
<Katenzhi> Wait here. I'll get her.
* Bivizmi smiles when she sees you, then frowns when she sees how upset you are.
<Bivizmi> Hey ... what's wrong?
<Katenzhi> Oignestros... he just came running up. He says she's dead...
<Bivizmi> Who?
<Katenzhi> Sulazh...
<Katenzhi> He found her on the farm.
<Bivizmi> Oh ... that's ...
<Bivizmi> What condition?
<Katenzhi> I don't know. He says he thought she was sleeping at first so... I guess... maybe it was her heart or something?
<Katenzhi> I mean...
<Katenzhi> Fuck...
<Bivizmi> What does he want you to do?
<Katenzhi> I don't know! I mean we need to go see what happened, right?
<Bivizmi> I guess.
<Bivizmi> I mean, the whole reason you convinced me to sell was for our safety. Is it safe for us to go back there?
<Katenzhi> I don't know, but... fuck I didn't want her to get killed!
<Bivizmi> All right.
<Katenzhi> It could be our fault she's dead!
<Bivizmi> We can't think that way.
<Bivizmi> Just let me throw something on and we can go.
<Katenzhi> Ok... you're right.
<AshnabisGM> You put together a few things and then come out where Oignestros is waiting patiently.
<Oignestros> You will come and see the lady?
<Katenzhi> Yes.
<Katenzhi> Ancestors... this is not how I saw this day going...
<AshnabisGM> The three of you head out into the swamp, with you and Bivizmi following Oignestros' heavy footprints with ease - though he makes less of an imprint on the Sestapor than you might imagine.
<AshnabisGM> Soon enough, you find yourself at Oignestros' hut of moss, peat, and stone.
<Oignestros> Come in, my little friends, I will be a-showing you.
* Katenzhi nods and enters the hut.
<AshnabisGM> Inside, you see, laid out on a bed of reeds and straw, Sulazh Ichos, her body strewn with pungent red mossy jelly of some sort. She is clearly dead but has no sign of obvious injury.
<Katenzhi> Ok...
<AshnabisGM> Around her neck is a strand of dried persimmons, like the ones you had seen previously hanging in the grove.
<Katenzhi> Oh fuck.
<Katenzhi> FUCK!
<Katenzhi> Oignestros... this is exactly how you found her?
<Oignestros> No.
<Katenzhi> The persimmons... were those on her?
<Oignestros> The [word you don't know], I put it there on her, for healing.
<Oignestros> Yes, those were there when I found her.
* Katenzhi looks at Bivizmi
<Katenzhi> Biv... we have to tell the fort.
<Bivizmi> What would we tell them?
<Bivizmi> She doesn't have a scratch on her.
<Katenzhi> We know why she died.
<Katenzhi> We have to say something
<Bivizmi> Sulazh, she is, was, some sort of important noble, right? This is going to be a mess.
<Katenzhi> Yeah.
<Katenzhi> Fuck...
<Bivizmi> What can we possibly tell the Fort to explain this?
<Katenzhi> Everything. From the beginning. At least two people have died because of this fucking plant now. I don't want there to be any more.
<Bivizmi> And the pale oracle? what happens with that?
<Katenzhi> I don't know. Frankly, I don't care any more.
<Bivizmi> I can't let what happened to me be for nothing, Kat. It can't be for nothing.
<Bivizmi> Maybe ... maybe we just lay her out somewhere where they'll find her body.
<Katenzhi> Biv...
<Katenzhi> What the fuck are you saying?
<Katenzhi> We know who did this...
<Bivizmi> For all we know, she had a heart attack out there.
<Katenzhi> Right. While she was making a persimmon wreath to go with her dress.
<Katenzhi> C'mon Biv...
<Bivizmi> What if we just take her to ... I don't know, her estate, her people?
<Katenzhi> What happened to you was... it was horrible. But we can't let it keep happening.
<Bivizmi> Whatever happened to Sulazh is not what happened to me.
<Katenzhi> We don't know what killedher. But we do know who.
<Katenzhi> And it's the same people who killed you. Don't you want them stopped?
<Bivizmi> OK, for now, we take her to the temple of the Voice. They will need to talk to her about what happened, maybe bring her back too. She's not that old, and she's very important.
<Bivizmi> Let them work with her to figure this out.
<Bivizmi> You want me to be safe. Ok, fine, but that has to go for both of us. And this is not safe.
<Katenzhi> If we tell the fort... go public with the pale oracle... then there's no more reason to kill us.
<Bivizmi> Revenge?
<Katenzhi> I did not sign up for covering up murders.
<Bivizmi> That's why I say ... let's take her to the temple. Let them find out it was a murder ... if it was.
* Katenzhi puts a hand over her face and tries to think.
<Katenzhi> I just... Ok... Ok.
<Bivizmi> Then we can think - you can talk to your people, figure this out with them too.
* Katenzhi nods.
<Katenzhi> But if she was murdered...
<Katenzhi> what then?
<Bivizmi> I ... don't know.
<Oignestros> We go back to town now?
<Katenzhi> ...yes.
<Katenzhi> Is there a way to... bring her with us?
* Oignestros picks her up as if she were nothing.
<Katenzhi> ...ok...
<Katenzhi> Let's go.
<Katenzhi> (We will take her to the temple and tell them that Oignestros found her out in the field.)
<AshnabisGM> You take Sulazh back to Kaskind, to the temple of the Voice there. Your explanations are, of necessity, terser than you would prefer, but you manage to deposit her body safely with the priests, to be cared for.
Junan and Jaigadu discuss what to do about Zefa
<AshnabisGM> Junan, in the week since you talked to Widiil Laulida about her nephew Atsusei, and learned his grim fate, you've been on edge.
<AshnabisGM> It's not that you were so surprised to learn that Zefa had killed him. She's shown herself capable of that and more in the past. And having some evidence to support that is a major step forward.
<AshnabisGM> You're a little more surprised - but only a little - to learn that his death relates to the war with Charadip. The poor kid.
<AshnabisGM> You're hopeful that Jaigadu can help resolve the situation, but you are only too aware that peace with Charadip is tenuous. And politics makes people do stupid things.
<AshnabisGM> Jaigadu is coming to your new office at the Fort, which the General has made available to you. It's a well-decorated set of rooms, with a little sitting area and a desk at one side. It even has a place to sleep, if you ever need one.
* Oignestros is now known as Jaigadu
* Jaigadu has grown out his mustache to a greater length since you last saw him. He's wearing a green silver-trimmed outfit that conceals his ample musculature, with a black and white checked vest overtop, and his envoy's cap.
<Jaigadu> Young kinsman Junan, it has been, once again, too long.
<Jaigadu> You've done well for yourself here!
<Junan> Its good to see you as well.
<Junan> I've at least maneuvered myself into a nice office
<Jaigadu> I apologize for the delay in arriving. The Longdancer needed attention to her sails and topmast. I don't mean my tardiness to imply that I don't care about your message.
<Junan> I didnt exactly expect you to magic yourself here. People watch where you go.
<Jaigadu> Well, that's so.
<Jaigadu> And I do tend to attract attention, mostly by my own choice, mind you.
<Junan> visiting the Fort is not out of character for you, so meeting here is good.
<Junan> What are we going to do?
* Junan says with a little exasperation
<Jaigadu> Well ... that is more complicated, isn't it.
<Jaigadu> I don't suppose there's any possibility the Voice was lying about the answers.
<Junan> that's always possible, but I did not get that impression... it would be quite bold to deceive in front of an envoy and a mystic
<Jaigadu> which Voice was it?
<Junan> Voice Elukir
* Jaigadu sighs.
<Jaigadu> Well, I'm not saying he wouldn't lie, but if he's lying about this, we have a much, much bigger problem.
<Jaigadu> So our Zefa's been up to it again.
<Junan> It's one of our own... not saying a recluse prospector is any better.
<Junan> She's been crossing so many lines
<Jaigadu> You're not wrong.
<Jaigadu> By our ancient laws, any envoy who as much as strikes another is eligible to be banished from our ranks. It is Akhora's Rule.
<Jaigadu> To kill another ... we can't do nothing at all.
<Junan> She has a bad enough reputation that calling in a reckoner would be easy, and have the backing of the Fort to enforce it.
<Jaigadu> I know you have long had concerns about her. That other murder, where you spoke at the inquiry against her.
<Jaigadu> I'm not saying you're wrong. Zefa - she's not a good person. I've known that a long time. I thought it was manageable.
<Junan> Clearly not manageable.
<Jaigadu> But so, too, the protection of our esteemed body is a value above all others. To do damage to the reputation of our order is against the will of our founders. That is Gatarg's Rule.
<Jaigadu> We have invested so much time and energy into the kelta, into establishing Ashnabis as a civilized place, welcome to the employment of envoys. If this is revealed publicly, it could work to undermine what we have done.
<Junan> What you are thinking isn't going to be easy
<Junan> She has a mystic aligned to her... she's skilled enough not to be caught off guard
<Jaigadu> What would you suggest?
<Junan> you have the authority and position to question her about Atsusei being found... bring her to the kelta under those guises... force her to face her peers and see how she defends her actions... if you want to handle this in house, thats the best way.
<Junan> if she refuses, then how much protection does her position offer?
<Jaigadu> None except by my word.
<Jaigadu> I can remove her, at a moment. But that could lead to more harm.
<Jaigadu> If she has truly become more erratic - anyone could be a target.
<Junan> Then you're looking at taking her by force
<Jaigadu> And again, that's something I could do - but that carries a risk.
<Junan> The choice here feels like this... we can risk tarnishing the reputation of the Envoys by calling her to justify herself, if you are forced to expell her, then sick the reckoners on her, or we take a martial response, which means someone is likely going to get hurt, and she may still get away.
<Junan> and then you end up doing the first one anyway.
<Junan> if she does get away
* Jaigadu nods.
<Jaigadu> Agreed.
<Junan> I wish there was an easy way out of this... she hasn't given us one.
* Jaigadu considers.
<Jaigadu> I will call a tribunal. It is unorthodox, given Zefa's role, granted. But it is warranted, by old Imperial law and custom, for us to handle our own affairs. And then, depending on what she says, we can choose to turn her over to the General to face what passes for justice out here.
<Junan> If I was her, I would probably run.
<Jaigadu> True, and if she does, then we must take another step.
<Jaigadu> We'll deal with that as it arises.
* Junan nods
<Jaigadu> And you, my young kinsman, as a ... reward ... for all your hard work ... I will have you serve on this tribunal.
<Jaigadu> And if she runs, then I will have you serve as her hunter.
<Junan> I'll be happy to be personally involved in resolving her fate.
* Jaigadu smiles.
<Jaigadu> Then smile more, if you're so happy! You asked for this responsibility!
<Junan> people are dead, this isn't something I'm going to smile about.
* Jaigadu nods.
<Jaigadu> Well - I should go. I have things to arrange now.
<Junan> I understand
<Junan> Next time maybe we'll just have pleasent subjects to discuss and can enjoy some wine and song
<Jaigadu> I'm ... I'm proud of you, Junan. You've done well.
<Junan> Thank you... it hasnt been a straight road for sure
Daifan and Ughivan finalize their plan to murder Galdai
<AshnabisNarrator> Daifan, Nezha passes word along to you that Galdai's granddaughter Ziftu's wedding will be held soon, outdoors at Galdai's estate.
<AshnabisNarrator> This is perhaps the opportunity that you have waited for - a chance to get close enough to Galdai to enact the final stage of your plan against her.
<AshnabisNarrator> You meet with Ughiva to confer about how best to execute it (and her).
<Ughiva> So, it's going to be a big party? Lots of people there?
<Daifan> It sounds like more of a private affair for elites
<Ughiva> Hm... Maybe you could slip in disguised as a servant, get close enough to her, and cast a spell.
<Ughiva> I've been thinking about it, and I think the best choice would be one called Phantasmal Killer. It targets her with an invisible monster that only she can see, and basically scares her to death.
<Ughiva> Quick, clean, no signs of violence, no reason to think it's anything but an old lady's heart giving out.
<Ughiva> You don't have to get very close to her to do it, either - a hundred feet is enough, or even a bit further. Someone could do it from the other side of a room or across a field if they had to.
* Daifan nods
<Ughiva> She won't know who targeted her, so even if they decide to question her spirit after death, what's she going to tell them?
<Daifan> That seems good
<Ughiva> Do you think you're up to the task?
<Daifan> perhaps the joy of the blessed occasion was simply too much. she seems so frail lately :p
* Ughiva nods
<Daifan> you think I should do it?
<Ughiva> I think you have a better chance of going in disguise and passing unnoticed so you can escape.
* Daifan nods
<Daifan> that's true... I hope
<Ughiva> It's possible, even with the measures we've taken, that she could resist it - maybe she's still stronger than we give her credit for.
<Ughiva> If that's the case, then presumably she'll know someone tried to attack her. You might get a second shot, but you should get away quickly if she doesn't drop after a second attempt.
* Daifan nods
<Ughiva> It won't be our only chance, but she might try to retaliate, or take extra precautions to protect herself, so it's probably our best shot because she won't be anticipating it.
<Daifan> It will be too far from any other to draw on the web, right?
* Ughiva considers
<Ughiva> I think it would be more risky. Even if we could get multiple folfi close enough to form a web, then that would be more people who'd have to hide and escape successfully.
* Daifan nods
<Daifan> okay
<Ughiva> You should hide when you cast it. Get behind a tree or under a table or something, whatever works, I don't know what the set-up will be. But so that no one sees you cast it, and if something does go wrong, it's less evident.
<Daifan> that's wise
<Daifan> I'll try and pick my time
* Ughiva nods
<Ughiva> Do you want me to come and wait nearby? I can hide up a tree or out in the swamp or something, in case you need help or a distraction or something, to get away.
* Daifan considers
<Daifan> I will take my chances
<Ughiva> All right.
<Ughiva> I know Nezha doesn't want to know what's going on - what's being planned - but do you think you should warn her?
<Daifan> I thik it is better for her if we do not
* Ughiva nods grudgingly.
<Ughiva> I suppose you never know what she might let slip, even accidentally.
<Daifan> I wouldn't want to put her in a postion where she might give us away
<Daifan> yes
Veznara talks with Galdai and Ziftu before the wedding
<AshnabisNarrator> Veznara, the date of your brother Sumurt's wedding to Lady Ziftu has been moved up, and then moved up again, at the request of the bride's grandmother, whose health is weakening.
<AshnabisNarrator> The day has at last arrived, and the weather is fortunately neither rainy nor excessively hot, but clear and mild.
<AshnabisNarrator> While it is not as elaborate a gathering as it would no doubt have been were the wedding being held back home, nevertheless there are about fifty or sixty guests in attendance, including Ziftu's parents and a few of her other noble family members who made the trip, as well as some associates and former students of Princess Galdai.
<AshnabisNarrator> Of course many of the local dignitaries are also in attendance, such as the General and various high-ranking Sentinels, Hand and Voice priests, and wealthy traders from the colony.
<AshnabisNarrator> Your parents are excitedly helping Sumurt prepare, giving him last minute instructions and guidance, while your presence has been requested at the side of Princess Galdai.
* Ughiva is now known as Galdai
* Veznara attends to the Princess at once
* Galdai is looking very frail, even more than usual, and sits in a high-backed armchair, wrapped in a finely-woven pale green shawl that is pinned with a jeweled clasp.
<Galdai> Ah, dear Veznara, it's good to see you. At last the momentous occasion has arrived, has it not?
* Veznara curtseys and smiles
<Veznara> Indeed, ma'am. And it is a wonderful day for it, as well. A good sign.
<Galdai> It has been a long road to get here, and I know that I have hastened us all towards its end, perhaps faster than others, including the young couple themselves, might have wished.
<Galdai> Do you think they are prepared for what is to follow?
* Veznara nods
<Veznara> I think so, ma'am. They have many around them who will do their best to help, as well.
<Galdai> That's true enough.
<Galdai> Under other circumstances, it would have been better to wait - to let them have more time to be young and carefree and not hurry them into marriage, but I'm afraid I am being selfish. I want to know that my dear Ziftu will be in safe hands and well cared for, once I'm gone.
<Veznara> A natural feeling, ma'am. And I think Lady Ziftu is happy with the situation - I hope so.
<Galdai> Ziftu is a kind, simple-hearted young woman, and she will be a good wife and, one day, Ancestors willing, a mother.
<Galdai> Ah, here is the bride now.
* Galdai says as Ziftu steps into the room.
* Ziftu wears a long, almost floor-length light purple robe, quite old-fashioned, embroidered with swirling white and gold patterns. Her hair is braided and covered with a translucent veil, held in place by a series of gold pins, that frames her round face.
* Veznara turns to greet her.
<Ziftu> Grandmother, Hand Veznara.
* Ziftu says politely, making a slight curtsey.
* Veznara curtseys back, and smiles
<Veznara> Lady Ziftu. You look wonderful.
<Galdai> Turn around, let me take a look at you.
* Ziftu does as instructed.
<Galdai> This gown was the one I was married in, but it suits you well enough, I think. I see they had to shorten it a little, but the seamstress did an adequate job - you'd barely notice.
<Ziftu> Yes, grandmother.
<Galdai> Today you will enter into a new stage of your life, as a wife. Remember all the things I've told you, and you'll be well-prepared.
<Galdai> Don't let this husband of yours get too used to thinking he's the one in charge, hm? He's young - if you show him from the beginning that you intend to have things your own way, rather than simply going along with his wishes, you'll be able to set a good pattern for your married life together.
<Galdai> No doubt it's unrealistic to expect young people to exercise restraint, but you should continue taking the potions that I've prepared for you, of course, at least for a few years. If you wait to have a baby you'll both be healthier for it.
* Ziftu looks a little embarrassed, but nods.
<Galdai> Moreover, I know you'll want to go back to Taizi once I'm gone - but this home will be yours, and your children's, and I want to know that you'll stay here as much as possible.
<Galdai> Besides, whatever comforts might be available back in Taizi, you won't have the same freedom as you have here, eh?
<Ziftu> Yes, grandmother.
* Ziftu says obediently.
* Veznara does not say anything to contradict the Princess, though she does wonder what Ziftu really thinks.
<Galdai> And Hand Veznara and Nezha and the others will be here to guide you too.
<Ziftu> Yes, Grandmother. But so will you, for a long while still.
<Galdai> Well, that's sweet of you to say. It's possible. No one, whether young or old, knows how long they might yet have.
<Galdai> But I do feel in my bones that my remaining days are not so very many, so listen to me while I'm still able to speak to you without the intervention of a priest.
<Galdai> I've taught you what I can, although you never showed any aptitude for magic and it's too late for that now. But I hope that you'll ensure that your children one day have the opportunity to study the art of the mystics, to learn if the talent has been handed down to them.
<Galdai> It has always been a blessing having you by my side, even if you could not truly follow in my footsteps.
* Galdai pats her granddaughter on the cheek.
<Ziftu> Thank you, grandmother. I hope I will always make you proud, of course.
* Veznara smiles
<Galdai> Well, they will be waiting for us outside. Veznara, perhaps you can help me make my way out to the yard?
<Veznara> Of course, ma'am. It is always an honour, and a pleasure.
* Veznara steps forward to help.
* Galdai leans on your arm as you help escort her to the site of the ceremony.
* Veznara does so attentively
Galdai dies after the wedding of Ziftu and Sumurt
<AshnabisNarrator> The wedding is to take place outside, under a large, ornate canopy that has been set up for the occasion (the one that Bitsaar helped you carry).
<AshnabisNarrator> The most illustrious guests and family members are seated on long, elegantly-carved benches at the front, while others stand behind them. Galdai, of course, has a seat all of her own, a place of honour at the very front.
<AshnabisNarrator> Hand Dezmali will be performing the ceremony, as the highest ranking priestess in the local community.
<AshnabisNarrator> Veznara, you're seated with the family at the front, of course, with your parents. You are an honoured guest!
* Veznara is of course wearing the tiara that Galdai so generously gifted her.
<AshnabisNarrator> The bride and groom stand before the priest, looking nervous beneath their elaborate finery, and quite young. But they manage to smile at one another as they speak their vows and complete the steps of the ceremony together.
<AshnabisNarrator> Afterwards, there is copious food and drink prepared, and music provided by some of the locals. The guests mingle and talk to one another, sampling the delicacies that are served to them on silver trays.
* Veznara will approach the couple at some suitable juncture to offer her heartfelt congratulations.
<AshnabisNarrator> Daifan, how do you want to do this? Did you want to bring Balinteze for moral support?
<Daifan> (Yes I do. They can maybe help me concoct a cover identity and dress for the occasion. ad then probably sit towards the back where I can slip behind of the support pillars when its time)
* Ziftu is now known as Balinteze
* Daifan will keep an eye on Galdai and try to pick a good moment to slip away
<AshnabisNarrator> Okay - I will assume they can help you disguise yourself - a servant is probably most unobtrusive?
<AshnabisNarrator> You can make a Stealth roll, with their assistance, to find a good place to hide yourself and not be noticed.
<Daifan> (okay! here we go :V)
* Daifan rolls [ 1d20+13 ] getting [ 3 ] which, after the modifier [ 13 ] totals [ 16 ]
<Daifan> (D:)
* Balinteze nudges you into slightly better concealment.
* Galdai is seated in a chair that's been brought out of the house specifically for her comfort. She sips at a cup of wine but doesn't seem to have much appetite for the food.
* Daifan nods thanks
<AshnabisNarrator> You need to take 8 doses of fos for the spell - you can take more if you want to try and cast something else immediately after, but at least 8.
* Veznara is probably checking on her from time to time, but also circulating among the guests, talking to Dezmali, etc
<AshnabisNarrator> So Daifan, first you make your roll to cast the spell, it's DC 18.
* Daifan is going to cast owl's wisdom on themself first for a lil boost
<AshnabisNarrator> okay
* Daifan rolls [ 1d20+10 ] getting [ 1 ] which, after the modifier [ 10 ] totals [ 11 ]
<Daifan> !roll 1d00
* @Lan-werk rolls for Daifan: [ 1d00 ] getting [ 1 ].
<Daifan> !roll 1d00
* @Lan-werk rolls for Daifan: [ 1d00 ] getting [ 1 ].
<Daifan> !roll 1d100
* @Lan-werk rolls for Daifan: [ 1d100 ] getting [ 72 ].
<Daifan> !roll 1d100
* @Lan-werk rolls for Daifan: [ 1d100 ] getting [ 78 ].
* Daifan 's eyes go wide as they try and fgure out exactly how they got here :x
* Daifan will listen and see if there is any commotion adn then peek at Galdai
<AshnabisNarrator> Your memory of how exactly you got here is hazy, but fortunatly Balinteze is nearby and can help steer you back into position.
<Daifan> <w> I'm so nervous...
<Balinteze> <w> Hey, you okay? You're going to be fine, I'm right here.
* Daifan will take a deep breath, and some more fos
* Daifan smiles
<Daifan> <w> I am.
* Daifan will try that again!
<AshnabisNarrator> okay, cast away :)
* Daifan rolls [ 1d20+10 ] getting [ 14 ] which, after the modifier [ 10 ] totals [ 24 ]
<AshnabisNarrator> Okay, you successfully cast the spell, no problems.
<Daifan> (okay, now the Big One)
* Daifan rolls [ 1d20+12 ] getting [ 12 ] which, after the modifier [ 12 ] totals [ 24 ]
<AshnabisNarrator> (well the other spell had already gone off, so you didn't need to do it again. but it's okay.)
<AshnabisNarrator> (like you still got your Owl's Wisdom, just forgot you had it ;)
<Daifan> (Oh righter, well, either way, success :V)
<AshnabisNarrator> Now I need to roll some saves for Galdai...
<Daifan> (hee, yeah)
<Galdai> !roll 1d20
* @Lan-werk rolls for Galdai: [ 1d20 ] getting [ 15 ].
<Galdai> !roll 1d20
* @Lan-werk rolls for Galdai: [ 1d20 ] getting [ 15 ].
* Galdai looks up in sudden surprise, and recoils in alarm.
* Galdai falls back in her chair, motionless, and then slumps over, wine spilling over the arm of her chair. Several people notice at once that she is in distress, and rush to her side. Nezha is the first to reach her, holding her upright and calling for help.
<AshnabisNarrator> The wedding reception comes to an abrupt and tragic end as the bride's grandmother expires on the very day she had so longed to see.
<AshnabisNarrator> !roll 1d20
* @Lan-werk rolls for AshnabisNarrator: [ 1d20 ] getting [ 12 ].
<AshnabisNarrator> She must have been waiting for just this moment, holding on to the frail thread of life until her beloved granddaughter was safely married.
<Veznara> (Alas.)
<AshnabisNarrator> It's how she would have wanted to go, murmur a few guests...
<AshnabisNarrator> Causing a huge commotion and as the center of attention.
* Daifan can use that to slip away, hopefully
<AshnabisNarrator> Let's have you make a Stealth roll and Veznara can make Perception, and just compare :)
* Veznara tries to handle the situation as well as she can, within her role, paying special attention to the newly married couple
<Veznara> !roll 1d20+18
* @Lan-werk rolls for Veznara: [ 1d20+18 ] getting [ 16 ] which, after the modifier [ 18 ] totals [ 34 ].
* Daifan rolls [ 1d20+13 ] getting [ 13 ] which, after the modifier [ 13 ] totals [ 26 ]
<AshnabisNarrator> Veznara does notice a pair of somewhat suspicious figures slipping away from the crowd, then.
<Daifan> (oh that shoudl be a 16 actually)
<Daifan> (err a +15)
<AshnabisNarrator> (oh like oyu should have +2 more? like 28?)
<AshnabisGM> (sorry, 13 + 15 = 28?)
<Daifan> (The sheet ws giving me an armor penalty. so yeah)
<AshnabisNarrator> then you tied, I guess.
<Balinteze> !roll 1d20
* @Lan-werk rolls for Balinteze: [ 1d20 ] getting [ 1 ].
<Balinteze> (lol)
<AshnabisNarrator> Well, I was going to have Balinteze aid you in stealthy escape but they are actually a hindrance I guess ;)
<Daifan> (They can attract attention away from me, that's fine ;)
<AshnabisNarrator> Veznara notices a servant leaving, then. just the one ;)
* Daifan will slip off with Balinteze, anyway, and catch ther breath in the wave of relief of being done with that, and being able to go back and tell the others
* Veznara trails off slightly at one point in her comforting speech... but resumes it quickly
Jimba mediates between Ulutse and her father
<AshnabisGM> Jimba, you've been managing lots of different tasks. The Fortune is a fine ship, and Liraula has done a good job with her, but she needs lots of little points of attention to make her truly your own.
<AshnabisGM> And of course, the warehouse repairs, which are ongoing, have their share of delays. Fixing buildings in heavy rain is no fun.
<AshnabisGM> Your dad hasn't made any more formal overtures but he's not far from your mind, and he is definitely still in town. That is one you'll have to deal with eventually, though.
<AshnabisGM> Not to mention that you are now the brother of some sort of hithkindred culture hero. Which doesn't really, exactly affect you directly, but people still talk. Folks on Ruur saw what they saw, and as heroes of the Battle of Pashas, you already had a reputation over there.
<AshnabisGM> With Llillilli dealing with that business, and Katenzhi and Gefraz over at their new place right now a lot, you don't have your usual complement of help on the Menagerie, which of course still has chores that need doing every day.
<AshnabisGM> Bashi and Mogri are good dogs but you haven't trained them to swab the decks ... yet.
<AshnabisGM> Oh yes, and a pirate lord is going to come to kill you. So half an hour a day of practice with the blade is probably called for, just in case.
<AshnabisGM> But today you are serving your assigned function as builder and maintainer of family harmony - just not your family. Hiramam Meglaar has come back from Ruur with you on the Fortune, to talk to his daughter Ulutse who has been staying with you.
<AshnabisGM> (ok, so, how would you like to handle this meeting? and where?)
<Jimba> (Hmm, that's a good question. Maybe a tavern?)
<AshnabisGM> (makes sense, neutral territory)
<Jimba> (Yeah, that's my thought.)
<AshnabisGM> Hiramam is already seated at the tavern at a corner table when the two of you arrive.
* Hiramam is attired plainly, with a brown dashi, but with a pin of lithus and iron clasping it at the shoulder.
* Ulutse is vaguely unkempt, perhaps hung over, but clean and as far as you can tell, sober. She is wearing a plain blue dashi hanging loose around her.
<Ulutse> <w> Promise me you'll stay, Jimba. I don't want to talk to him alone.
<Jimba> <w> Sure. If you don't want to do this right now, you can still back out.
<Jimba> <w> I know how difficult dealing with parents can be.
<Ulutse> <w> Let's just do it.
* Jimba nods.
* Jimba gives Hiramam his best practiced smile.
<Jimba> Hiramam, I hope you've found [tavern] to your liking.
* Ulutse approaches the table and sits.
* Jimba takes a seat.
<Hiramam> It's fine. Not as nice as some of those in Timiil, but better than anything on Ruur, that's for sure.
<Hiramam> The Floating Otter is not known for its service ... or its food ... or its hygiene.
* Jimba laughs.
<Ulutse> Hello, Father.
<Hiramam> Ulutse, it's good to see you. I wanted to come, and Jimba was kind enough to offer me a ride.
<Jimba> Just being friendly.
<Hiramam> I owe you thanks for more than that, Jimba - for making sure Ulutse is well-settled here in Kaskind, that's a great kindness.
* Jimba smiles and waves that off.
<Ulutse> All right, so ... what happens now?
* Ulutse waves over to the barkeep to order a drink.
<Hiramam> Well ... really I just wanted to see you. And to say that we love you, of course, and hope that you always feel welcome at home.
* Ulutse blinks.
<Ulutse> I don't think that's been true since I died.
<Ulutse> I haven't felt welcome since then.
<Hiramam> You were my apprentice. You could come back, resume your training.
* Jimba is paying close attention to both of them, but is specifically monitoring Ulutse's mood and reactions.
<Ulutse> No.
<Ulutse> Father ... I'm pregnant.
<Hiramam> ...
<Hiramam> Ah.
<Hiramam> I see.
<Jimba> (Awkward... >.>)
<Hiramam> And the father is ...?
<Ulutse> Aptan Gadali.
* Hiramam frowns.
<Hiramam> Did you know about this, Jimba?
<Jimba> Uh, no, but, hey, felicitations.
* Jimba tries for an upbeat smile.
<Hiramam> And which fleet is he serving now?
<Jimba> Mine, for the moment. :)
<Hiramam> You're too young to marry. Too young for ... all of this.
<Jimba> (How old is she again?)
<AshnabisGM> (14 or 15, you're not quite sure)
<Jimba> (Oh, jeez, I thought she was a little older. Eep.)
<AshnabisGM> (Aptan is a bit older, but not too much, 16 or 17?)
* Jimba looks to Ulutse.
<Ulutse> I am not.
* Ulutse says firmly, as the server brings her a drink.
<Jimba> (Well said. -_-)
<Jimba> Were you wanting to marry Aptan?
<Ulutse> Well ... if he'll have me.
<Ulutse> And otherwise I'll just raise the child myself.
<Jimba> Well, I seriously doubt that's true.
<Jimba> You have people here in Kaskind who would be happy to help.
<Jimba> Me at least, if help were needed.
<Hiramam> And on Ruur.
<Hiramam> Your mother ... well, she won't be happy about any of this, but it's not like any of us are immune to bad decisions.
<Jimba> But I'm sure Aptan will want to. Have you talked to him about it?
<Ulutse> No, the baby was a bit of a shock. We never got that far.
<Jimba> But he knows you're pregnant?
<Ulutse> He knows.
<Ulutse> I think it was a bit of a shock.
<Jimba> Well, I'm sure it was to everyone involved.
<Jimba> But, hey, a happy shock.
* Jimba goes for upbeat again.
* Hiramam is trying to emulate your upbeat nature at learning that his estranged teenage alcoholic daughter is pregnant with a pirate's kid.
<Hiramam> Ah ... yes.
<Jimba> (Good man, Hiramam. Better than the alternative reaction)
<Hiramam> Ah, who is Aptan's clan-elder?
* Hiramam asks to whoever has an answer.
<Jimba> (Do I know?)
<AshnabisGM> (the only kin of Aptan's you know is Liraula. Gadali is not a local clan, really)
<Ulutse> I don't know. I mean ... his aunt maybe?
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> That's the person I'd talk to, yeah.
* Hiramam sighs.
<AshnabisGM> I mean, Ulutse is an anagram of Eu Slut, so we should not be too surprised how she turned out, amirite?
<Ulutse> (ww!!)
<Hiramam> All right ... Ulutse, look.
<Hiramam> Your mother and I will support you. We love you. Whatever you decide.
<Hiramam> Don't feel that you need to be back in Pashas. I can see that you're well taken care of here.
<Hiramam> And Jimba ... if there is to be a marriage, here, we will need to talk seriously about employment and support for these two.
<Jimba> Well, they're employed...
* Ulutse nods.
<Ulutse> And Jimba treats us very well.
<Hiramam> I understand. And Jimba, we appreciate all of that. I just worry, that's all.
<Jimba> I mean, I get that. What were you hoping for in "talking seriously"?
<Hiramam> We'll take that up once we know what Aptan says.
* Jimba nods.
Llillilli is attacked by Thethu, but subdues them
<AshnabisGM> Llillilli, it is, about a week after your return from Ruur. You have been alone since your return, as Thelef has been travelling, speaking your praises, gathering support for your new movement, and generally taking care of the social niceties that you would prefer not to. He knows you all too well, your good husband.
<AshnabisGM> One morning, you are just getting ready to go out to the hifishae to tend to the children for a few hours while Helithae takes a break, when you are distracted by the small ball of light, the lluthi, that has been hanging around you since you underwent your age grade ceremony a couple of weeks earlier.
<AshnabisGM> While the creature doesn't seem capable of speech, it clearly does understand you and is possessed of its own intellect and will.
<AshnabisGM> (You can give it a name if you like - or not, it doesn't have the ability to name itself)
<AshnabisGM> The glowing creature flits around near your face, seemingly trying to draw your attention to something.
<Llillilli> What? What is it?
* Llillilli frowns
<AshnabisGM> It flits towards the front of the house, waiting momentarily as if indicating for you to follow.
<Llillilli> ... All right...
* Llillilli gets up and follows it
<AshnabisGM> You head outside and it seems to be directing you across the road, towards a southward-facing alley between buildings.
<Llillilli> Hmmm...
* Llillilli continues after it, but is on her guard.
<AshnabisGM> You see a cloaked figure there, in the alley, peering across at your home. A moment's look tells you it is one of the People, no human.
<Llillilli> (no one I recognize, I assume)
<AshnabisGM> You see them at last, blue of scale and black of eye, the solar Thethu, clad in lithus.
* Thethu jerks back for a moment, as if considering stepping out of sight, but then pulls their cloak back around their shoulders proudly, as if to proclaim their presence.
<Llillilli> <h> Can I help you?
<Llillilli> <h> Strange for a solar to be lurking in a dark alley
* Thethu scowls.
<Thethu> I can go where I will. Or do you command everyone you meet, not only your filthy traitor husband?
* Llillilli shrugs. I
<Llillilli> It was a question.
<Thethu> Do you feel proud of yourself?
<Llillilli> Why are you staring at my home?
<Thethu> Because someone needs to hold you to account.
<Llillilli> For what?
<Thethu> You have acted against the will of the Sun. Our Fellis declared that the pfullaes would be forbidden to you. Always defiant, you disobeyed.
<Llillilli> Fellis doesn't command the sun.
* Llillilli shrugs
<Thethu> You think that gold-flecked eyes give you the right to tell us what to do. I reject that.
<Thethu> Laelaesi thinks their age will protect them for their own treason. And perhaps it will, I cannot say. But make no mistake, they are also traitors.
<Thethu> All of you are.
<Llillilli> I am not telling anyone what to do.
<Llillilli> I'm going home. I hope you find watching my door entertaining.
<Thethu> You, you painted windbag, you mock with every step of your heavy-shod feet.
<Llillilli> Have a pleasant day
* Thethu steps towards you and draws a long curved knife.
<Llillilli> Or don't
* Llillilli draws her pfethes
<Llillilli> If you do this, solar, you will have a regret
* Llillilli says in a neutral tone
<Thethu> I will never regret being right.
* Thethu advances.
<Llillilli> (I ready an action to attack if he takes an offensive action :p)
<AshnabisGM> (ok we're just going to do combat here, it's not complex enough to need roll20)
<Llillilli> (ok)
<AshnabisGM> (there's no readied actions, they had their weapon already drawn, so just initiative)
<Llillilli> (well, if I beat them I will ;)
<AshnabisGM> (that is true)
<Llillilli> !roll 1d20+8
* @Lan-werk rolls for Llillilli: [ 1d20+8 ] getting [ 18 ] which, after the modifier [ 8 ] totals [ 26 ].
<Thethu> !roll 1d20+2
* @Lan-werk rolls for Thethu: [ 1d20+2 ] getting [ 15 ] which, after the modifier [ 2 ] totals [ 17 ].
* Hiramam is now known as Wisp
<Wisp> !roll 1d20+13
* @Lan-werk rolls for Wisp: [ 1d20+13 ] getting [ 11 ] which, after the modifier [ 13 ] totals [ 24 ].
<AshnabisGM> (ok you're up)
<Llillilli> (I ready my action, like I said)
<AshnabisGM> (yup yup)
* Wisp will do the same
* Thethu comes to attack you then, but not with the blade, but with their touch
* Llillilli will attack them then
<AshnabisGM> (ok go ahead)
<Llillilli> (oh boy)
<Llillilli> !roll 1d20+17
* @Lan-werk rolls for Llillilli: [ 1d20+17 ] getting [ 20 ] which, after the modifier [ 17 ] totals [ 37 ].
<Llillilli> (roll to confirm)
<Llillilli> !roll 1d20+17
* @Lan-werk rolls for Llillilli: [ 1d20+17 ] getting [ 11 ] which, after the modifier [ 17 ] totals [ 28 ].
<AshnabisGM> confirm
<Llillilli> (other hand)
<Llillilli> !roll 1d20+17
* @Lan-werk rolls for Llillilli: [ 1d20+17 ] getting [ 12 ] which, after the modifier [ 17 ] totals [ 29 ].
<Llillilli> (second attacks)
<Llillilli> !roll 1d20+12
* @Lan-werk rolls for Llillilli: [ 1d20+12 ] getting [ 5 ] which, after the modifier [ 12 ] totals [ 17 ].
<Llillilli> !roll 1d20+12
* @Lan-werk rolls for Llillilli: [ 1d20+12 ] getting [ 16 ] which, after the modifier [ 12 ] totals [ 28 ].
<AshnabisGM> (all of those hit except the 17)
<Llillilli> !roll 4d6+20
* @Lan-werk rolls for Llillilli: [ 4d6+20 ] getting [ 6 2 5 6 ] for a total of [ 19 ] which, after the modifier [ 20 ] totals [ 39 ].
<Llillilli> (+1 bleed)
<AshnabisGM> The lluthi attacks as you do.
<Wisp> !roll 1d20+16
* @Lan-werk rolls for Wisp: [ 1d20+16 ] getting [ 14 ] which, after the modifier [ 16 ] totals [ 30 ].
<Wisp> !roll 2d8
* @Lan-werk rolls for Wisp: [ 2d8 ] getting [ 3 6 ] for a total of [ 9 ].
* Thethu is not looking super happy or healthy, but still manages to reach out to attack you with a touch (no AOO though)
<Thethu> !roll 1d20+7
* @Lan-werk rolls for Thethu: [ 1d20+7 ] getting [ 11 ] which, after the modifier [ 7 ] totals [ 18 ].
<AshnabisGM> (what's your touch AC?)
<Llillilli> (23)
<AshnabisGM> (... yeah)
* Thethu swipes but misses.
<AshnabisGM> (ok, your turn)
<Llillilli> (how hurt does he look? like would I kill him if I hit him that much again?)
<AshnabisGM> (hard to say - i mean, that's not a thing you can instantly determine. Thethu is bleeding quite a bit.)
<Llillilli> (I will just take attacks with one hand so I'm at less penalty for non lethal)
<AshnabisGM> (ok)
<Llillilli> (and I will withering touch on any hits, also non lethal)
<Llillilli> !roll 1d20+15
* @Lan-werk rolls for Llillilli: [ 1d20+15 ] getting [ 18 ] which, after the modifier [ 15 ] totals [ 33 ].
<Llillilli> !roll 1d20+10
* @Lan-werk rolls for Llillilli: [ 1d20+10 ] getting [ 18 ] which, after the modifier [ 10 ] totals [ 28 ].
<Llillilli> (noice)
<AshnabisGM> ok go ahead on damage
<AshnabisGM> (sigh ...)
<Llillilli> !roll 6d6+18
* @Lan-werk rolls for Llillilli: [ 6d6+18 ] getting [ 2 3 1 3 6 1 ] for a total of [ 16 ] which, after the modifier [ 18 ] totals [ 34 ].
* Thethu crumples to the ground.
<Llillilli> :|
<Llillilli> I told you
* Llillilli tries to think of where she should take them. Shulilae's house? Laelaesi? Thulle?
* Llillilli sighs.
<Llillilli> (which of those options would be closer, and am I actually capable of moving them?)
<AshnabisGM> Shulilae's is probably closest, and yes, you could carry them at least for a while. I mean, it will look strange - it is a public street. But then, you've been seen mowing them down in broad daylight already.
* Llillilli will get him to Shulilae's house then, and hopefully someone can get Thulle or Laelaesi to figure out what to do with them
<AshnabisGM> You take Thethu to Shulilae and Helithae - they can stabilize Thethu in the water, at least. They remain unconscious for the moment.
* Llillilli sighs again.
<Llillilli> I could not dissuade them from attacking me.
<Shulilae> They are lucky you did not leave them to die. You could have.
<Llillilli> That would only have helped their cause anyway.
<Llillilli> Should I wake them? I don't know if they will be any more reasonable than before.
<Shulilae> I think ... perhaps you should go.
<Llillilli> Go?
* Llillilli frowns.
<Shulilae> Let us mollify them.
<Shulilae> They will do nothing to us.
<Llillilli> Alright.
<Llillilli> I am sorry for leaving you with this situation. :/
<Shulilae> It is an honor.
<Llillilli> I will wait to hear, uh, news of what happens then.
<Shulilae> I will speak with you again soon, honored one. Go, and leave this with me.
* Llillilli nods.
<Llillilli> THank you.
* Llillilli will go home and hopefully find Thelef.
Epilogue
<AshnabisNarrator> On the following day, Daifan, you hear the distressing news that Nezha's body was found hanging from a tree, a rope around her neck, not very far from the small goat farm of Hevraz and Udarta. Her apparent suicide is accounted as a response to grief over her mistress's death, but you can't help but feel like that is not the true story.
