Ashnabis session 62

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Session

Session date: October 24, 2021
Fair Cycle date:

Introduction

<AshnabisNarrator> Every now and again, the land registry gets called upon by some excessively-monied noble to engage in some sort of scavenger hunt for some lost treasure in the swamp.
<AshnabisNarrator> You're thinking of the time Dezren Tertizhi hired you to find his family khazkamma. That, at least, had the merit of being interesting. Other times, it's like 'my husband's signet ring fell off when he was ungraciously upended by a malicious willow root, somewhere north of here'.
<AshnabisNarrator> So you know a thing or two about losing things in the swamp. Good news is, at least in this case you know exactly what you left and where to find it. Bad news is, it's Daifan, and while you know exactly where you left your lost companion, getting Daifan back is easier said than done.
<AshnabisNarrator> The terms of the negotiation you set with the Vine-hag is that Daifan would remain as her hostage, awaiting your return with someone - anyone - who would volunteer themselves for the strange transformation that she had planned for Moss.
<AshnabisNarrator> Not to be forgotten are your dead colleagues, Idasti of the Sumnai and Mepla of the Meglaar, slain in battle with the hag. You have retrieved their bodies for appropriate rites. So, too, your living companions, Sulidein, Selisaeth, and Sharei, who seem to be recovering well enough from their recent trauma.
<AshnabisNarrator> But now you must meet to plan - how will you find someone willing to put themselves through the Vine-hag's transformation for the sake of peace with the colony?

The group discuss plans

<AshnabisNarrator> You're all waiting in the meeting room at the registry, awaiting Utus, who has called you here but is running late. Sulidein has insisted on attending as well.
* Utus enters, breathless. He is dressed rather formally, in a red shirt with black cuffs and his envoy's hat in hand.
<Utus> I apologize. My meeting with the General went longer than I expected. Planning for funerals, among other things.
<Utus> Sit, please. Ah, you're already seated. Very well.
* Utus sits down at the head of the table.
* Utus looks around the room.
<Utus> All here? And ... Sulidein, very well.
<Utus> I would like to hear your plans regarding Daifan, and how to resolve this situation favorably.
* Utus seems quite frazzled, for him.
* Llillilli looks around the room helplessly
<Sulidein> Daifan should have left me there. I should go back and give myself up again.
* Sulidein says miserably.
<Llillilli> We could bring more people and just *take* her back.
<Utus> That was certainly suggested to me by the general.
<Junan> Might not be a bad idea
<Jimba> It's an option, certainly.
<Utus> That this problem is not going to go away so we should just make it go away, permanently. But my understanding was that you were reluctant to do that, on your first visit?
<Llillilli> If we let you go it will be you and Daifan fighting over who stays
<Llillilli> We weren't certain we would be able to do it ourselves.
<Llillilli> And Daifan insisted.
<Junan> from the sounds of what happened, appeasing this thing will just lead to more people being taken
<Utus> what do we really know about this ... Vine-hag?
<Sulidein> I don't think it... she... takes people very often.
* Sulidein says a bit cautiously.
<Katenzhi> If we tried to kill her and failed... I have a feeling she would take an awful lot.
<Junan> then we wont fail
<Katenzhi> Not that we shouldn't. Just something to kep in mind.
* Jimba frowns.
<Llillilli> Nobody is going to "volunteer" for this. Except you or one of Daifan's other friends, and that won't work either.
* Llillilli indicates Sulidein
<Llillilli> So what other option is there?
<Sulidein> Do we know someone won't volunteer for it? We don't even know what it really would involve.
<Junan> its killed two people
<Llillilli> Do you have anyone in mind?
<Llillilli> How would we even find such a person??
<Utus> The General was open to this option, but was very insistent that it needs to be someone who goes voluntarily, I mean really voluntarily, and that it must be an Omban - no locals.
<Jimba> Why?
<Jimba> Why Omban, I mean?
<Junan> so it doesnt look like the fort is sacrificing a local for its own interests.
<Utus> Because how do you think it would look if the Land Registry, in order to rescue one of its own - a corpseborn, even - asked for volunteers among the local population - so that we can keep expanding.
* Utus nods at Junan.
<Utus> Exactly.
<Veznara> . o O (She doesn't want that kind of power in the hands of a local.)
<Jimba> Fair enough.
* Jimba considers.
<Utus> And make no mistake, limits on expansion are off the table. I read your report, as did she, and let's just say that we are not in the business of negotiating with the Vine-hag.
* Llillilli scowls.
<Katenzhi> Then the point is moot. We have to fight her. Now or later.
<Junan> even if colony stopped expanding that way, locals could move out there, Charadip could send people out there...
<Junan> I'm willing to try and negotiate some way for this thing to move on without resorting to ending it, as unlikely as that is to succeed.
* Jimba sighs.
<Utus> All right, Junan, I agree. I would prefer to not have to kill a powerful forest spirit, the consequences of which would be ... uncertain, also.
<Utus> So we return to the question - what do we really know about her, and what she wants?
<Jimba> Precious little.
<Katenzhi> She wants us to stop encroaching.
<Utus> This ... Oignestros. What does he have to say? And what is he, exactly?
<Katenzhi> That's about all.
<Llillilli> He's what she turns people into, if I understood
<Utus> But he seems ... benevolent, is that so? Katenzhi, you know him best?
<Katenzhi> I think he's the same as her, only younger. Less... tempermental.
<Katenzhi> He still likes people.
<Katenzhi> But honestly, I don't know what he or she is.
<Utus> We may need more information from him. But it seems like being transformed into a long-lived forest spirit is ... not inherently awful?
<Katenzhi> You want to sign up?
* Utus laughs.
<Utus> No I think my wife would object.
<Jimba> ...I do.
<Katenzhi> No.
<Utus> But if there were someone - perhaps someone older, or someone without close family, someone who enjoys the swamp ... I don't know.
<Katenzhi> If anyone it should be me.
<Jimba> You have a husband.
<Katenzhi> You have a hippo.
<Junan> there is anger in this thing, and its anger may taint whatever it changes.
<Jimba> Others can care for her.
<Jimba> Or perhaps she can accompany me.
<Jimba> We don't actually know.
<Sulidein> I don't think Daifan would want you to sacrifice yourselves any more than she wanted me to.
<Katenzhi> Jimba, you are not gonna make me explain to my parents why you're a pile of moss now.
<Llillilli> Oh, so we should have to explain to *them*??
<Jimba> I can explain it to them, depending on how much time.
<Veznara> Before sacrificing *anyone*, let's talk to Oignestros and ask more about what his transformation was like. Is he the same person he was before?
<Llillilli> None of you are staying there!!
<Junan> a real question would be is it a spirit inhabiting the plants or is it the plants... is that something you could tell Veznara?
<Jimba> I don't want to leave Daifan there one moment longer than necessary, but I have unfinished business here in the colony.
<Llillilli> Jimba. No.
<Katenzhi> You're not staying there.
<Veznara> I didn't get the sense that there was a haunt...
<Junan> lets talk to Oignstros then. Learn what we can to better figure this out
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> Best to know the terms of such an agreement, as best we can.
<Utus> And let's think about options. Treat killing her as one of them - but not the preferred one. Because we don't know how many of these entities there are, or how upset they will be if you kill one of them.
<Utus> Even this Oignestros - I know he has been a friend to you, but he is not human, as we understand it. We don't know how far that would go.
<Jimba> Right.
<Katenzhi> He didn't seem like he would overly mourn her.
<Jimba> Well, I suppose that's somewhere to start.
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> He seemed more scared of her than anything.
* Utus nods.
<Utus> Obviously time is important here, but I don't want to rush into anything.
<Utus> And continue to think about people who may meet the kind of criteria I outlined. People who might be willing or even eager.
<Junan> we can to talk to Oignestros. You can try and gather some usefull supplies, jugs of oil and what not, just in case.
<Utus> All right. If there's nothing else, then, dismissed. But check in before you take any action.
<Jimba> Of course.
<AshnabisNarrator> All right, you can get ready to go talk to Oignestros then. Before you depart, though, Moss will pull Junan aside for a moment, privately.
<Sulidein> Um... look. This is kind of awkward, but, did anyone tell Balinteze about Daifan? They would want to know...
<Junan> I have not had the opportunity
* Sulidein nods
<Sulidein> I can go do it, then.
<Sulidein> Unless you think it's a bad idea?
<Junan> and get the silly idea out of your head about sacrificing yourself.
<Junan> No you should let them know... and dont let them get thier own idea of sacrificing themselves either.
<Sulidein> I just feel guilty that Daifan is only there because of me.
<Junan> It was crazy reckless what Daifan did.
* Sulidein nods
<Junan> it was her choice
<Junan> I doubt I could have talked her out of it, but I wasn't there either to try
<Sulidein> I'm sorry.
<Junan> you were just doing your job, you didnt ask to be attacked by some vine spirit.
<Junan> lets make the best of the opportunity we have to get ready and get Daifan back.
* Sulidein draws a deep breath and nods.
<Sulidein> Okay - I'll trust that we'll figure something out.
* Sulidein will head off, presumably to the fort to track down Balinteze, while the rest of you head out to go see Oignestros (or anyone else you want to talk with.)
<AshnabisNarrator> Okay, it sounds like Llillilli is going to talk to Shulilae, is everyone else going to talk to Oignestros or was there anyone else you needed to talk to?
<Veznara> (Oignestros first, I think. After that we may have a better idea whether and who else to talk to.)

Oignestros tells them more about his transformation

<AshnabisNarrator> You can pay another visit to Oignestros, at his hut.
* Oignestros looks a little more haggard than at your last visit, you think - less like a well-tended garden and more like a disheveled back lot.
<Katenzhi> Are you ok?
<Katenzhi> You look a bit... overgrown.
<Oignestros> Ah, friend Katenzhi! You are safe and well? I have been a-worried for you.
<Katenzhi> Yeah, I'm fine. We met her.
<Katenzhi> We... we had to leave someone with her, as a hostage. But we're going back.
<Oignestros> A hostage?
<Jimba> Strictly temporary.
<Katenzhi> She wants someone she can... transform. Our friend volunteered to stay with her until we find someone.
<Katenzhi> It's... a mess.
<Oignestros> Your friend is very brave to stay.
<Katenzhi> I know.
<Katenzhi> Is there anything else you can tell us? Anything that might help us save her?
<Oignestros> She wants to make another?
<Katenzhi> Yes. And for humans to stop encroaching on her land.
<Oignestros> It is very rare, rare to bring another like us into being.
<Oignestros> When I was a-forming, it was long ago. The first war. That is how we grow, in a fell season, in the shadow of a shadow.
<Katenzhi> Times of turmoil?
<Oignestros> As you say.
<Jimba> Oignestros, may I ask you, ah, personal question?
* Oignestros nods his head to Jimba
<Jimba> Do you remember who you were before?
* Oignestros lowers his head, as if lost in thought.
<Oignestros> I remember it as if half-eaten, perhaps just a crumb. It has been so long.
<Jimba> But when you changed?
<Katenzhi> Were you still... you?
<Oignestros> My first form was a boy, a cook's apprentice, in the army of long ago.
<Oignestros> My name was ... I had a name. A short name. Mito? Mino? Not big like now.
* Jimba nods.
<Junan> can Kewustwiin leave her territory, if she chose to? Go somewhere else?
* Oignestros considers this.
<Oignestros> She could, but she would not choose to, I think. It would not hurt her body to leave, but it would hurt her spirit. Like leaving a family?
* Junan frowns
<Oignestros> The trees and plants of this place, they are like her children. I am not her child, although I come from her workings.
<Veznara> Do you remember how you were chosen by her? What happened?
<Oignestros> I was gathering fruit for the men ... ahh, don't worry, friends, not those fruit! Not everything is about persimmons.
* Oignestros says with a laugh.
* Katenzhi smiles slightly at that
<Oignestros> It was a good place - to be in the trees of this land. I felt at peace there.
<Oignestros> She found me, and then I was changed. I think... I accepted this choice. It was slow, and there was discomfort, but also much wisdom.
<Oignestros> When I awoke, I was ... I. The I that was and the I that you see now, two eyes, haha! Then, I remembered everything.
<Oignestros> Now, it has been so long, there is mostly just me.
<Junan> You have a body, a form like us. Is she the same? What would happen to you if a boulder fell on you can broke your form? Would you grow a new one?
<Oignestros> The boy of before is like a seed that grew into me.
<Oignestros> For the seed, there is a time in darkness, a time of growth and transformation, before the tree emerges.
* Oignestros considers Junan's question.
<Oignestros> Our forms are strong, difficult to harm, but we can be harmed. I do not know if my body was destroyed, if a new one would grow later. It would not be me, I think.
<Katenzhi> Why would she make a new one of you? To what end?
<Oignestros> I do not know her thinking. But it is not her aim to raise allies. When she made me, she left as I grew. Then the trees and plants taught me the rest of what I needed to know.
<Oignestros> It might be that she thinks more of the land needs protecting? To give more strength to the swamp when she feels it threatened.
<Veznara> When she made you, did you leave a family behind?
<Oignestros> Perhaps back in some other land, far away? But I do not think I had an ache in my heart for leaving them. And for the ones I was with, I do not know if they ever looked for me. They probably thought I was lost in the swamp and dead.
<Katenzhi> I'm sorry if we're dragging up old memories.
* Oignestros shrugs his big shoulders
<Oignestros> It is not of distress to me now.
<Junan> thank you for your time. It has been a help.
<Jimba> Yes, thank you.
<Katenzhi> Thanks, big guy.
<Oignestros> What will you do, for your friend?
<Junan> we will get her back
* Oignestros looks like he's pondering something.
<Oignestros> If another one like me does grow, let me know of it? I would go to be with them when they emerge. Perhaps if I show them my ways, then they will see the humans as I do - as a part of nature, instead of a threat to it.
<Katenzhi> We will.
* Jimba smiles at him and nods.
<Veznara> If only we can find someone... :/
<Junan> even if we found someone, we would need to get them away from Kewustwiin. Just because they left Oignestros doesnt mean they'll do the same this time.
<Jimba> What makes you think they wouldn't?
<Junan> lets see if Llillilli had any luck
<AshnabisNarrator> You can reunite to talk about things, then. Where do you want to be, at the land registry?
<Junan> (sure)
<Llillilli> (makes sense)
<Veznara> (Not in front of Bitsaar! )

Llillilli confers with Shulilae

* Llillilli will make her way quickly to Shulilae & Helithae's home.
* Shulilae is puttering around the garden outside.
<Shulilae> Ah, hello, revered one! Come to see the little ones?
<Llillilli> I wish I could stay, but there is an emergency with my friend Daifan...
<Shulilae> Oh no, what is wrong?
<Llillilli> I need to ask you, in your time in the swamps and forests, have you encountered a sort of a forest spirit? Some call it a vine hag, but I doubt that is its proper name...
<Llillilli> One has taken her.
* Shulilae turns grim.
<Shulilae> I am very sorry.
<Llillilli> THere was another expedition that was lost; we went to find them, and one of her friends from Banei had been taken. Daifan traded herself until someone else that would volunteer could be found... if such a person exists.
<Llillilli> It seems doubtful...
<Shulilae> That is ... very brave of her.
<Llillilli> She is one of the bravest people I know.
<Llillilli> I can't let the swamp have my friend.
<Shulilae> How can I help?
<Llillilli> If you can tell me anything that you know of these spirits... If there's anything we could use to convince her to let Daifan go. Or, if she will not... if there is a weakness.
<Llillilli> SHe wants the Fort to stop expanding. If it was my decision I would agree. No amount of swamp is worth Daifan's life. But this is out of my control
* Llillilli throws her hands up, frustrated
<Shulilae> They are ancient ... I do not know if they ever die of age. Very few in number ... fewer than a handful across all the Sestapor, I would imagine. They are guardians of nature - they see their place as to protect the trees and plants. By any means necessary.
<Shulilae> I can imagine that the expansion of the colony would be very threatening to her. But I also know that no one person can stop that. The ships continue to dock.
* Llillilli nods.
<Shulilae> As for weaknesses - I know of none.
<Llillilli> I was afraid you would say that.
<Shulilae> So she has proposed to substitute another in Daifan's place?
* Llillilli nods.
<Llillilli> I can't think of anyone who would volunteer.
<Shulilae> It would be a very lonely life.
<Llillilli> Yes.
<Shulilae> But surely there would be some who would appreciate its benefits.
<Llillilli> The fort says they must be Omban, as well.
<Llillilli> I just... I have no idea who that would be.
<Llillilli> And I don't know if we have time to find them.
<Shulilae> I am sorry, revered one.
* Llillilli sighs.
<Llillilli> I should return to the others.
<Llillilli> Maybe they will have found something, someone.
<Shulilae> I hope you can get your friend back.
<Llillilli> THank you... so do I.

They reunite to discuss their options

<Junan> so that was minimally productive
<Junan> did you have any luck Llillilli
<Llillilli> Mm. Same.
<Llillilli> Shulilae knows of such spirits, but doesn't think they have any weakness.
<Katenzhi> Has anyone... thought of anyone?
<Llillilli> Well.
<Llillilli> On the way back here... Something did occur to me.
<Junan> Oignestros indicated that it can be harmed, just not easily
<Llillilli> Isn't Brother Bones Omban? Originally?
<Katenzhi> What's that?
<Jimba> Oh, huh, I don't know.
<Llillilli> He hates people and wants to be left alone already.
<Katenzhi> Doesn't he want to like kill us on sight?
<Llillilli> He didn't kill me...
<Katenzhi> Do you think he'd do it?
<Veznara> Nor me. Though I was with Daifan at the time.
<Llillilli> I don't know. But I don't know that he wouldn't.
<Junan> how is that a solution...just someone else that will kill people?
<Llillilli> He seemed... fond of Daifan. ish.
<Llillilli> He isn't killing people now.
* Llillilli shrugs
<Katenzhi> I mean I don't know him at all, but it might be worth a shot
<Veznara> I don't know. What about people in Banei?
<Veznara> They know Daifan best. There might be someone there who's willing.
<Llillilli> Daifan won't let one of their friends do that.
<Junan> finding someone to volunteer shouldnt even be a solution were considering.
<Jimba> Why not?
<Junan> it doesnt solve anything
<Jimba> It may.
<Llillilli> It gets Daifan back.
<Junan> it trades one life for Daifan, and this thing is still out there, waiting to slaughter the next happless person who wanders by.
<Katenzhi> I don't like it either, but I don't have a better idea.
<Llillilli> Maybe they shouldn't be wandering where they don't belong
<Jimba> This is why I want to volunteer.
<Jimba> It gives us someone who can negotiate with her.
<Llillilli> If it is made known that the area is not safe
<Jimba> More on her level.
<Katenzhi> Jimba...
<Llillilli> No, Jimba.
<Jimba> I don't like the idea of the Fort going, "Oh, well, we ran into some local resistance. Let's just burn the place to the ground."
<Llillilli> I don't think they could.
<Jimba> Or salt the earth, or whatever they end up doing.
<Jimba> It's not a real solution. Or, if it is, it's a shitty one.
<Veznara> Let's think. Is there *anyone* we know who might be suitable?
<Llillilli> There *aren't* any good ones!
<Jimba> Am I mute? Are you all not hearing me?
<Jimba> I will do it.
<Llillilli> That is not an acceptable solution!!
<Jimba> I just...have to take care of Yeggun first. >.>
<Katenzhi> Jimba... is this what you want?
<Veznara> Is there time for that?
<Jimba> I don't know. Do we have time?
<Jimba> The problem, for me, is that, hey, Yeggun might kill me first.
<Jimba> Then you're all back to square one.
* Llillilli thins her lips and leaves the room
<Junan> We're not actually considering this? No. Jimba that is not an answer
<Jimba> How is it not?
<Katenzhi> Because you have people that love you. Moron.
<Junan> because its an angry murdering nature spirit that may be happy for a couple of days with just you, and then turn around and start taking more people.
<Junan> and then your sacrifice is for NOTHING!
<Jimba> Let's say that's the case. Then I help you all kill her, with some of her own power. But I don't think killing should be our first option.
<Katenzhi> And if you're not still... you?
<Veznara> She did let us go on the understanding that we'd act in good faith.
<Jimba> Oignestros seemed to indicate he was the same person after, more or less.
<Katenzhi> But part of the deal was that we would stop expanding, and that's not gonna happen either way.
<Jimba> Right, but negotiation may be possible, with some trust built up.
<Katenzhi> That's a big assumption
<Jimba> Right now, it feels like both sides are saying, "I'm not getting 100% of what I want, so I'm going to kill the other side."
<Jimba> And I just don't think that *has* to be the solution.
<Junan> It doesnt have to be the solution
<Junan> but here is the problem
<Junan> Kewustwiin's position is unachievable.
<Jimba> Granted.
<Junan> people will go west eventually, even if we stop them today.
<Junan> Our best hope would be to convince it of that, and give it options to either move on or try and adapt.
<Junan> whats against us is that its attached to the area like its family, making moving on a very hard sell
<Katenzhi> Also that I think it may be, literally, insane.
<Junan> and I just don't get the feeling that its willing to adapt.
<Veznara> She seemed well aware of that, and determined to stand her ground.
<Jimba> We've had one interaction with her. We don't know enough.
<Junan> the land registry has had two, the first it killed two people and took two more captive.
<Jimba> I'm not saying she didn't overreact. Wildly and dangerously so.
<Jimba> But I don't want this to become another "Expansion is inevitable, so we're justified in whatever we do to facilitate that" mission.
<Junan> so we go back, we try to negotiate something that results in everyone walking away alive, without sacrificing someone.
<Katenzhi> What do we possibly have to offer her?
<Jimba> Maybe we have more than we know.
<Jimba> We need to talk to her more.
<Jimba> Maybe Daifan will know more by the time we go back.
<Veznara> Can we Send to Daifan now?
<Katenzhi> We can try. I don't know what kind of magic that thing has.
<AshnabisNarrator> Okay, if you want to do a Sending to Daifan, we should go over to Daifan's scene first, so that they might have more of an idea of what to reply.

Daifan speaks with the Vine-Hag

<AshnabisGM> Daifan, your days as the Vine-hag's ... guest? prisoner? hostage? have been inoffensive so far. You are readily able to obtain food from the swamp and the Vine-hag doesn't seem greatly concerned if you wander a short distance from where you met her.
<AshnabisGM> You are also very confident that at all times, You Are Being Watched. It is as if every tree has been enlisted as a spy with the purpose of keeping watch over you.
<AshnabisGM> The Vine-hag herself spends more time than makes you feel entirely comfortable examining you, as if assessing something. Budal are not so used to being scrutinized - humans tend to ignore you. It is strange.
<AshnabisGM> Right now she is circling around you, at a distance just far enough that you don't feel immediately threatened, but clearly looking inward, rather than outward to any sign of rescue or invasion.
* Vine-hag is probably about 30 feet from you in total? Just kind of ... watching.
* Daifan pokes at the little fire they have made to try and keep warm and maybe sorta dry
<Daifan> Do you want to talk?
<Vine-hag> Do you?
<Daifan> more than I want to be stared at silently, I guess
<Daifan> why are you watching me so closely?
<Vine-hag> Because soon enough you will be as one with me, unless I misjudge your so-called friends.
<Daifan> oh?
<Daifan> you don't trust them?
<Vine-hag> I trust no humans.
<Vine-hag> You lie, it is in your nature.
<Daifan> Sure, but not about everythng al the time.
<Daifan> that would get too confusing
<Daifan> you never lie?
<Vine-hag> I never lie to the trees. What would be the point?
<Daifan> the trees arent' the only ones you deal with though
<Vine-hag> Do you want to be changed?
<Daifan> not really. I did a lot of work to be happy with who I am now.
<Vine-hag> So you think they will bring another to take your place?
* Daifan laughs
<Daifan> they'd better
<Vine-hag> If they do not, you will be willingly transformed? Or will you seek to flee?
<Daifan> If they don't comt back with a volunteer, I imagine they will hope they have another solution
<Vine-hag> Perhaps you think they shall return with a horde of soldiers to cut me down?
<Daifan> I think that would be a mistake, so I hope they don't.
<Vine-hag> Tell me, strange one, why did you agree to this?
* Daifan smiles wryly
<Daifan> I have had lot of time to think abut that, heh.
<Daifan> But - there are lots of poeple who live here who are also worried about how quickly things are expanding, who resent the empire and te change t brings
<Vine-hag> They could leave.
<Daifan> I don't think they could.
<Daifan> It isn't just the ones here. Even if they all decided to go, too many people know about this place, and they would still come.
<Daifan> it wuld just be messier. Maybe that woud be easier for you, but probably not for theb ones who lived here longer
<Vine-hag> And so I am to give up these lands, which for so long have been in my care?
<Daifan> There's the Aumesh, the Hith... another party to make them be more carefu nd thoughtful about how things happen, I think that would bring better balance, maybe?
<Daifan> I don't think you have to give them up.
<Daifan> why does it have to be one or the other?
<Daifan> I have never like that kind of thinking
<Daifan> There are lots of ways to build bridges between people, ideas places all kinds of things.
<Vine-hag> This thing that is happening, the transformation to come - it is not a thing of my choosing.
<Daifan> no?
<Vine-hag> I did not wake up one day and choose to create another of my kind.
<Vine-hag> Neither this time, nor the last time.
<Daifan> Even if they came with soldier and destroyed you, woud it happen anyway?
<Vine-hag> It is that ... when the world lies askew, it is time for renewal. It is the season for another birth.
* Daifan nods
<Daifan> birth is messy - I've helped with lots
<Vine-hag> The other one, the one whose stink you bear, might do it, if you destroy me.
* Daifan nods
<Vine-hag> It is because there are so many of you, that the season has come again.
<Daifan> Mmhmm
<Vine-hag> I can no more control it than I can control the setting of the sun.
<Daifan> no, it would come anyway in time
<Daifan> were you made?
<Vine-hag> Are not all things made?
* Daifan shrugs
<Daifan> what happened to the one who made you, then?
<Vine-hag> It exists still, somewhere. But it is quiet now.
* Daifan nods
<Daifan> you can come sit here if you want
* Vine-hag approaches.
<Vine-hag> You are not fearful?
* Daifan shrugs
<Daifan> why would you being closer or further matter?
<Vine-hag> I suppose if I did not harm you while you slept, you know that I am not about to harm you while awake.
<Daifan> that too. I'm not afraid that you will suddenly decide to kill me, but I undertand that you could.
<Daifan> If you wanted to
<Vine-hag> I could.
<Daifan> what do you want right now?
<Vine-hag> What I want, I cannot have.
<Daifan> you can still say it
<Vine-hag> I do not want to have to create another. I am happiest alone. But that is not mine to say. As for humans - if they continue to come, I will continue to kill them. But it brings me no joy. I want quiet.
<Daifan> and only humans bring noise?
<Vine-hag> Not only. But right now, yes.
<Daifan> but you lived wth them before, you don't think we cn find that kind of harmony again?
<Vine-hag> I know the other one - the one made during the last war - thinks so.
<Vine-hag> But I doubt.
<Daifan> Change is hard
<Daifan> but just because something is different doesn't mean it is bad
<Vine-hag> Perhaps you would not mind being changed, then?
* Daifan smiles
<Daifan> nice
<Daifan> but its easier when we can control it and chose some things, isnt it?
<Vine-hag> That is so.
<Daifan> that's why I think it will be better if they can find someone who wants this, or is willing. easier for everyone.
<Vine-hag> I understand.

The group perform a Sending to Daifan

<Katenzhi> What message do we want to send?
<Veznara> Ask if she's okay... say we're looking for a replacement... is there anything else the Vine-hag might accept? Any negotiating room?
<Junan> yeah that looks about what I was thinking
<Veznara> Anything else we should mention or ask?
<Jimba> I can't think of anything?
<Veznara> I guess that's it, then. We can always Send again if we think of anything else.
* Katenzhi will send "Are you ok? Looking for substitute. Would she be willing to negotiate further? Anything else she wants? Any other ideas? I had five words left."
<Katenzhi> !roll 1d20+18
* Lan-werk rolls for Katenzhi: [ 1d20+18 ] getting [ 19 ] which, after the modifier [ 18 ] totals [ 37 ].
<Daifan> "doing fine. She doesn't want to change someone, she just has to, if not her, another one will. Then we negotiate with them."
<Veznara> Another one? :/
<Junan> so now its we find someone or someone else gets picked.
* Llillilli has calmed down enough to be back by now
<Llillilli> So, back to that.
<Veznara> I... have an idea. A possible candidate. Maybe. Oh, it's insane! But... I suppose I could at least ask.
<Llillilli> Who?
<Veznara> The Taizi liaison to the fort has a nephew, Zusir Mopister. He isn't doing much of anything here.
<Jimba> What makes you think he'll want to do it?
<Veznara> He's... formally in disgrace. It's not deserved, but I don't think he'll ever get out of it.
<Veznara> This could be seen as a way to restore some of his honour.
<Llillilli> ... I guess
<Veznara> And if Zeba sees it as a way to keep a check on the General, she may be more open to it.
<Veznara> It's a long shot, though.
<Veznara> But for Zusir himself... well, if they agree, we could take him to talk to Oignestros, see what he thinks.
<Llillilli> As long as they talk fast.
<Llillilli> We don't know how long she will wait.
<Junan> yeah, I dont like leaving Daifan there longer than we have to.
<Jimba> Likewise.
<Veznara> I agree. I'll go talk to them after this.
<Veznara> If they agree, we have our candidate. If they don't, though, what then?
<Llillilli> Brother Bones.
<Llillilli> I will go and see him, if someone can take me.
* Llillilli looks at Katenzhi
<AshnabisNarrator> (we'll assume Katenzhi will agree to this)
<Veznara> I'll go see whether the Mopisters would consider it, and meet you back here.
<Jimba> It doesn't hurt to try all our options.
<AshnabisNarrator> Okay - is anyone else going with Llillilli and Kat, or just them?

Veznara talks with Zeba about turning Zusir into a swamp-spirit but is turned down

<Zeba> Ah, Veznara. Very good to see you! It's been a while, although of course I understand that your duties keep you very busy.
<Veznara> Yes, especially with Her Imperial Highness' passing. I'm sorry - I would have liked to come see you sooner. I have something to discuss, though.
<Zeba> All right.
* Zeba asks, sounding perhaps a little wary.
<Veznara> There's a situation at the Registry office. During exploration, one of our groups found itself in a confrontation with a... being, out there.
<Zeba> What sort of being?
<Veznara> A sort of nature spirit. It seeks to defend the land.
<Zeba> Hmm, sounds troublesome.
<Veznara> Yes. It... it's looking for someone to imbue with its magic, to help in its task.
<Zeba> I'm afraid I don't know much about magical things.
<Veznara> When we went to investigate it let us go, but on condition that we leave one of our number behind as surety, and return with a volunteer to take that person's place.
<Zeba> All right.
<Veznara> It would mean a completely new life for this volunteer. From what I gather, they retain memories of who they were, but are changed fundamentally.
<Zeba> Who is the volunteer?
<Veznara> There is no volunteer at present. We're looking for one.
<Zeba> All right.
<Veznara> I was thinking - is this something Zusir might want to think about? Saving someone else would be very brave, something to add to his honour.
<Veznara> He would be rescuing someone from danger.
<Zeba> You want Zusir to be transformed into a forest spirit?
<Zeba> Zusir doesn't know anything about the swamp.
<Veznara> I don't *want* it. But I do want to save the member of the team.
<Veznara> I know someone who has gone through it himself.
<Veznara> He was not harmed, as far as I can tell.
<Zeba> Zusir is not just some random person to throw his life away. He is a Mopister! And the matter you speak of, his honour, this is not any of your concern.
<Veznara> Of course not! It would be a sacrifice, but this might be a way for him to help the colony.
<Zeba> If it causes no harm, why does your team member not undergo the transformation? For that matter, why don't you?
<Veznara> That may happen. But it means leaving behind obligations.
<Veznara> I can't do that, at present.
<Zeba> Well I don't see why Zusir would be a suitable choice. Is that why you have come here, then, to try to convince a man deep in depression to give his life to the forest, as some pointless sacrifice?
<Veznara> Not as a pointless sacrifice. As a way of giving his life meaning! I think you're right, Zeba - he is in a deep depression. I don't want to hurt him! My hope is that this could help him out of it.
<Veznara> What is he doing here in Kaskind?
<Veznara> What duties hold him here, I mean?
<Zeba> He is spending time with his beloved auntie, who would be bereft without him.
* Zeba looks at you sternly.
<Zeba> Did you even think of that?
* Veznara sighs
<Veznara> I'm sure he wouldn't want to leave you. Even though it would only be for a little while. But the chance to help somebody and serve the colony could be important to him.
<Veznara> Why don't we ask him?
<Zeba> Because I don't think it is a good idea.
* Veznara sighs again
<Veznara> You're afraid he'd say yes, without really thinking it through?
<Zeba> Among other things, yes.
<Zeba> Is this decision revocable - if he decides in a year he's unhappy?
<Veznara> No. No, I'm pretty sure it isn't.
<Veznara> It saddens me, though, that he's so unhappy now.
<Zeba> I think that transforming into a swamp creature is not the solution you imagine it to be, to that problem.
<Veznara> That wasn't exactly how I was thinking of it. :/
<Zeba> You were thinking that Zusir's life is less consequential than your friend's then?
<Veznara> No. I was thinking that Zusir might be a willing volunteer, where my friend is not.
<Veznara> I was just hoping it could be a solution to two problems. But I wouldn't want Zusir to say yes now, and regret it later. You're right about that.
<Zeba> And you would not want me to be forever resentful towards you.
<Veznara> No, of course not! Now I'm worried that I've just offended you. I hope you can forgive me.
<Zeba> I can forgive you, of course, Veznara. I understand that you want to help your friend. But you see that this cannot be the solution.
* Veznara smiles sadly
<Veznara> No. I had tunnel vision; I wasn't considering everything as I should have. I'm sorry.
<Zeba> Well, in any case. No harm done.
<Veznara> I hope I can still come to call on you. And I *am* sorry I haven't done so as much as I would like.
<Zeba> You may come, anytime.
<Veznara> Thank you, Zeba.

Llillilli and Katenzhi visit Brother Bones

<AshnabisNarrator> Okay - is anyone else going with Llillilli and Kat, or just them?
<AshnabisNarrator> I'll assume just them, I guess. You can teleport to near the site where you've spoken with Brother Bones before.
<Llillilli> (I assume I don't see him right away?)
<AshnabisNarrator> No, you'll need to make your presence known.
<Llillilli> Brother Bones! Brother Bones! Please can we speak? My friend Daifan is in danger...
* Llillilli calls out to the swamp
* Brother_Bones 's voice can be heard before you can see him. "What kind of danger?"
<Llillilli> There's a forest spirit... A vine hag... It is holding her as a hostage.
* Llillilli looks around, trying to figure out where the voice is coming from.
<Brother_Bones> Ahhhh, that one.
<Llillilli> ... You know them?
* Brother_Bones will emerge from a cluster of trees, keeping some distance from you.
<Brother_Bones> I could not have lived here as long as I have without knowing of her, at least enough to respect her space.
* Brother_Bones says in his low, raspy voice.
<Llillilli> She says she has to make another, and if it isn't Daifan it must be someone else.
<Brother_Bones> So Daifan was captured?
<Llillilli> No, she traded herself for another, Suleidin. A friend from Banei.
<Brother_Bones> A generous sacrifice.
<Llillilli> She did it in the hope that we could find some other way... There are a lot of people who depend on Daifan.
<Brother_Bones> What other way do you hope to find, then?
<Llillilli> Someone who would be changed willingly.
<Brother_Bones> And what would that mean, to be changed in such a way?
* Llillilli frowns.
<Llillilli> I don't know if I can explain.
<Llillilli> It would be to become something like she is.
<Brother_Bones> Something old and cantankerous, living alone in the swamp?
* Brother_Bones says with a hoarse chuckle.
<Llillilli> I understand that it takes some time
<Llillilli> Well, yes.
<Brother_Bones> I am already that. Perhaps the change goes faster if you're already close to the end result.
* Llillilli is trying to decide whether that means he's considering it
<Llillilli> (sense motive, lol)
<Llillilli> !roll 1d20+13
* Lan-werk rolls for Llillilli: [ 1d20+13 ] getting [ 2 ] which, after the modifier [ 13 ] totals [ 15 ].
<AshnabisNarrator> (it's hard to say.)
<Llillilli> (indeed)
<Llillilli> Would you consider it? Or at least talk to them?
* Brother_Bones remains silent for a moment, as if lost in thought.
<Brother_Bones> I am an old man. One day, not too far away, I will die and the swamp will take me. Perhaps... if it is a little sooner, if I control the time and day of my joining with it, that would be ... pleasant.
<Brother_Bones> And Daifan is ... as people go... a good person.
<Llillilli> She is... one of the best humans I know.
<Brother_Bones> I will go and speak with this vine-hag. I will learn what is required. Perhaps we can come to an agreement.
<Brother_Bones> I have spent much of my existence seeking knowledge, and becoming what I am not meant to be. This is not so different.
<Llillilli> THank you.
* Llillilli says with emphatic sincerity

They teleport Brother Bones to meet the Vine-Hag

<AshnabisNarrator> Katenzhi will teleport you and Brother Bones to the vine-hag's grove.
* Llillilli immediately starts looking around for Daifan.
<Llillilli> Daifan??
<Daifan> hello!
* Daifan pops out of their little shelter
<Llillilli> Are you alright still?
<Daifan> Yes, I'm fine, thank you
<Llillilli> We found someone who might be willing to stay...
* Daifan resists the impulse to give her a hug
<Daifan> oh, good!
* Daifan says enthusiastically relieved
<Llillilli> He wants to talk to your host
* Daifan nods
* Brother_Bones stands back slightly, waiting.
* Vine-hag comes forward.
<Vine-hag> This one, I know. You know me too, do you not?
* Vine-hag says, extending a tendril to the elder corpseborn.
* Llillilli steps away a bit to let them interact...
<Brother_Bones> I see your workings in the land. I don't think I can say I know you - yet.
<Daifan> oooh...
<Vine-hag> You keep the humans from your lands. Your magics turn them away.
<Brother_Bones> Yes. I prefer my solitude.
<Vine-hag> This life I offer, it is a kind of solitude. But not just of one year or ten.
<Brother_Bones> More years than a human's lifespan?
<Vine-hag> I have dwelt in this realm for ten dozens of those.
<Brother_Bones> Marvellous.
* Daifan shuffles over to Llillilli
<Daifan> where are the others?
<Daifan> (And Kat ;)
<Llillilli> back in town
<Brother_Bones> What of my current abilities? Do they remain, after such a transformation?
<Vine-hag> I ... do not know.
<Brother_Bones> Hmm.
* Vine-hag says, in a voice that suggests that this is not something she had considered.
<Vine-hag> Perhaps.
<Brother_Bones> Something else to be discovered, then.
<Vine-hag> The transformation, it takes time. It is not a momentary matter.
<Brother_Bones> Daifan had requested my help in another matter. Would it be possible for me to complete that assistance, before undergoing this transformation?
<Vine-hag> What matter?
* Brother_Bones looks to Daifan.
<Brother_Bones> It's not my place to explain.
* Llillilli also looks to Daifan
<Daifan> uhhh. There is a witch who put her soul in a baby and I hate her. I want her gone.
<Vine-hag> ... are you sure you want to go back to these humans, Daifan?
* Daifan laughs
<Daifan> Yes.
<Llillilli> ...
* Vine-hag asks with a kind of incredulity that you would not have thought possible from a pile of vines and roots
<Vine-hag> Then this is the concord I will strike with you, dead-leaf-voice-man.
* Llillilli gives Daifan a wide eyed look of what the fuck
<Vine-hag> You shall stay with me, as man, until your task is done.
<Vine-hag> But it cannot wait long. The pull is great.
* Daifan looks relieved at that
<Brother_Bones> Very well. I agree to this.
<Daifan> Thank you both
* Llillilli is also ridiculously relieved
<Llillilli> Yes, thank you.
<Vine-hag> And then we shall discover what your nature will be.
<Daifan> MMmhmm, have fun with that @_@
<Brother_Bones> It shall be done.
<Llillilli>
Let's go home...
<Vine-hag> Daifan, go, then. Do not take this gift of your release for granted. I will remember your words to me.
<Daifan> I will not - thank you.
<AshnabisNarrator> On that note, Katenzhi can teleport you all back home, then, leaving the strange pair to their newfound ... arrangement.