Nemnosti session 11
Summary
Session
- Session date: July 7, 2024
- Negili Reckoning date: IE 768, Nalaltu
Prologue
Welcome, acolytes! Tonight instead of songs and stories, I want to talk to you about something that probably means something powerful to you, even if it seemed all a blur at the time. Your first time meeting Her. Think back to that first moment. For some of you, like me, you were very very young, perhaps just out of infancy. For others, new to this place, it was perhaps scant weeks or months ago. For you, it was the beginning; for Her, you are in the middle of Her eternity.
* The narrator pauses, seeing some movement in the back. Hey! Now, now, back to the fire. We're not done yet. Sit, sit, and soon enough we can dance. Then resumes.
You would think, after all these centuries, that She would find it hard to keep us all straight. But among all those thousands who have been in your place, you are unique and precious to Her. And in Her capacious memory is stored that precious moment, precious to Her just as it is to you. Someday - if you have not already - you will have a second meeting with Her, and a third, and more. It would be so easy for us to take for granted that we will have another. But never be so bold. Consider that most people will never meet Nemnu Ula, nor any other saint. We are not merely in Her shelter here at Nemnosti. We are Her family, and our time with Her is as precious to Her as it is to you. And know that in being here, you are loved.
Nemnu talks to Izu about Her concerns that Alai, Jevai, and others have a problem with Her
[NemnostiGM] Izu, there is nothing special about today. Truly, there is not. It's well into Nalaltu now, a few days after your return from fighting the hurmumez and assisting the Taizian sentinels.
[NemnostiGM] The sun is just about to rise over the eastern crest of the Pardopasu, which means that it's still quite early. It promises to be a sunny day, not unusual for this time of summer, of course.
[NemnostiGM] And yet, here you are, at sunrise, in the Lady's waiting room, straightening linens, organizing chairs, and trying not to worry. For, in about an hour, all of you - including Rechegoko - are meeting with Nemnu to discuss your most recent expedition to the Ghengom - and everything that might follow from it.
[NemnostiGM] You got the word last night from Nemnu Herself, and you could barely sleep. But whatever anxiety you have, you can only imagine that Alai must have it worse. You're pretty sure she hasn't been in Her master's presence since her return to the ulajeta.
[NemnostiGM] As for Rechegoko, you have no idea what to think. This could go any number of ways for the big man - and the rest of you.
[NemnostiGM] As you finish laying out the room, the bubun wheel Her into the chamber and set her at one end of the table.
[Nemnu] Farai. All looks to be in order.
[Nemnu] You are good to remember how I like the tea set to be arranged for such gatherings.
[Izu] Yes, Lady.
[Nemnu] Did you speak to any of the others last night? Or was it too late?
[NemnostiGM] (you surely didn't, except perhaps to Ifa.)
[Izu] No , My Lady. I did not think it prudent.
* Nemnu pauses - you can always tell when She is pausing as opposed to just being silent.
[Nemnu] I have not spoken to Ozel since she returned from her training in Ardukh.
* Izu tries to seem Yes. I know that she has not been in your presence for some time.
[Izu] Yes. I know that she has not been in your presence for some time.
[Nemnu] Why?
[Izu] Well... have you asked to see her?
[Nemnu] No.
[Izu] Why?
[Nemnu] I didn't have any reason to need her presence.
[Izu] Do You need one?
[Nemnu] I do not call on my acolytes arbitrarily.
[Izu] My Lady, when I visit my sister, or my friends, I do not first think of a reason to do so.
[Izu] Forgive my directness.
[Nemnu] Your directness needs no forgiveness. It is what I seek.
[Izu] I cannot speak to Ozel's state of mind, but prehaps she has been waiting for you to call on her.
[Nemnu] I have learned over the years that when I call on others, it is never treated as a simple friendly chat.
[Nemnu] But perhaps you are right.
* Kennesaw is now known as Ifa
[Izu] Perhaps if You did call on Your acolytes more arbitrarily... it would be.
[Izu] But, I do not mean to tell You Your business. I know You have Your reasons for everything.
[Nemnu] Everyone has reasons for everything they do.
[Nemnu] I have had reason, over the past weeks, to doubt my reasons for many decisions I have made in the past.
[Nemnu] This one, hopefully, is not so consequential. Ozel is precious to me, as are you, of course, Farai.
* Izu smiles at that.
[Izu] As, I am sure, you are to her.
[Izu] And to all of us.
[Nemnu] Well, it is almost time.
[Izu] My Lady...
[Nemnu] Yes, Farai?
[Izu] Before the meeting, there is something else I should tell you.
[Nemnu] What is it?
[Izu] I spoke with Jevai recently. She is... less than happy with your recent... decisions... regarding the Lanky Stones.
[Nemnu] I see.
[Izu] I do not know the matter well enough to say if she is right, but I trust Jevai to know her business. If she believes there is an issue, it may be worth considering.
[Nemnu] Do you trust my judgement also?
[Izu] Of course I do.
[Izu] But not blindly. You would not want that.
[Nemnu] No, indeed.
[Nemnu] My Hestur, she has good reason for her concerns.
[Nemnu] I will not diminish them.
* Izu nods.
[Izu] I hope I have not spoken out of place today, My Lady.
[Nemnu] No, certainly not.
[Izu] Shall I see the others in?
[Nemnu] Yes, thank you.
* Izu will bow and go to fetch the rest of the party.
Nemnu gathers the team, along with Rechegoko, to discuss the state of affairs and assign tasks to Her various acolytes
[NemnostiGM] You are all escorted into Nemnu's waiting room, which Izu has laid out for all of you. There is tea and biscuits on the table for any of you who would like some.
* NPC-2 is now known as Rechegoko
[Marga] Oooh cookies.
* Ifa will take an appropriate place.
* Rechegoko looks around, in a state of wonderment.
[Ifa] My Lady.
* Jevai will take tea and a biscuit, sure (After acknowledging the Lady)
* Rechegoko bows deeply, as if not knowing what else to do.
* Kuspir salutes
* Alai is wearing a black Altala with white shoulders and a dress that shimmers black/blue/purple. Her hair is up so that is spills down with bone pins holding it in place. She has numerous fine bracelets a bone inlayed choker on as well as rings and her usual silver headband.
[Nemnu] Sit. We have much to discuss.
* Ifa immediately digs into the biscuits after greeting Nemnu.
* Jevai will sit
* Marga sits with Rechegoko and starts eating snacks
* Alai takes no refreshments and sits as directed.
* Kuspir takes a seat, after getting some tea
[Nemnu] You are Rechegoko, of the Naznaz?
* Rechegoko looks up, startled.
[Rechegoko] Ah ... yes, Your Saintliness.
* Nemnu would be smiling if she could, you suspect.
* Marga stops mid-cookie
[Nemnu] I hope my acolytes and family here at the ulajeta have been treating you appropriately.
* Rechegoko glances over at Marga.
[Rechegoko] Yes, Lady.
[Nemnu] Tell me of your family.
[Rechegoko] I do not speak to them anymore. I am on my own.
[Nemnu] I did not ask that. But know that you are not the only one in this room to have been estranged from kin.
* Ifa tries to give Rechegoko an encouraging smile.
[Rechegoko] Ahh ... yes, I apologize, Lady ... I do not know, uhhh ...
* Rechegoko looks over at Marga again.
[Marga] What do You want to know?
* Marga Leans In
[Jevai] We spoke with rechegoko about his famiy earlier Lady, unless uyou prefer to hear it from him, Marga and I can assist
[Nemnu] I want to know about the Naznaz lineage. And I want to know about what danger they may pose to us.
[Rechegoko] Lady ... ahhh ... my family follow the ildomo, the truth-journey. We have done so forever.
[Rechegoko] I was raised to believe that you, and all saints, are ... violations.
[Rechegoko] But I do not believe such things anymore.
[Nemnu] Again, I do not ask what you believe. If I thought you were a danger, I would have dealt with that long before now. And certainly you would not be in my presence.
* Marga bristles.
[Marga] You... you should be nice to him
[Marga] This is hard!
[Jevai] We are all safe here.
* Jevai says, trying to be reassuring
* Rechegoko smiles, emboldened by Marga's words.
[Rechegoko] My uncle ... the one known as Naznaz, our leader ... his given name is Aizhanefer. In my early days, we just lived, far away, where we would not be found by anyone. Kept separate. But over time, that changed.
[Rechegoko] Our shaman went to a great conclave, and when they returned, my family's views started to change.
[Rechegoko] Eventually, I had to leave.
[Rechegoko] My uncle and I have not spoken in six years. So if you want to know what his goals are today, I do not know.
[Rechegoko] But he is tekru, like Jevai. Only he speaks the old language and follows the old path, of course.
[Marga] Saza says they got a lot of people up there.
* Marga interjects
[Nemnu] Yes, that is of interest to me. Saza seems to know a great deal about their activities.
[Rechegoko] Everyone on both sides of the mountains knows of Saza of the Gago, Lady. But I never met her in my village.
[Nemnu] Hestur, is it your view that Saza has allied herself with the Hulti?
[Jevai] Yes.
[Nemnu] Why would she do that?
[Marga] Well, she thinks they're gonna win.
[Nemnu] That suggests that this is a game to them.
[Nemnu] Or to her, which is perhaps just as likely.
[Marga] It sounded more like... a fight than a game, but I dunno.
[Jevai] I'm sure there is some element of ego, or some power she seeks, as well
[Nemnu] Is it worth determining why she wants this?
[Jevai] Do you think it is within our power to do so?
[Nemnu] Yes, of course. Not by asking her, perhaps, but by Source, certainly.
[Jevai] are you still considering giving her an acolyte?
[Nemnu] If she is actually in league with Hulti, that would be catastrophic.
[Nemnu] I have enough enemies already. I had hoped she was not one of them.
[Ifa] I think that depends on what "in league" means in this context.
[Jevai] Downward will try to set everythng in motion in a way that will benefit her above any ally.
[Jevai] I wouldn't think they can trust her any more than we can
[Nemnu] I would like to know whether the Naznaz is working with the one we call Gunuremai.
[Nemnu] We are assuming that the answer is yes, because they are both Hulti. But it does not sound like we know that.
[Jevai] We do not.
* Ifa nods.
[Nemnu] My primary goal here is to keep my acolytes alive and well. We surely are not past that danger.
[Nemnu] The Lanky Stones are still at risk.
[Jevai] I have been thinking about ways that we can assist the Stoneguards to secure them more thoroughly without resettng the password - however I need to consult with Upward
[Nemnu] Of course, do so if it is useful.
* Jevai nods
[Nemnu] The Taizians - do we have any reason to be concerned further about them? They seem to be, at least in this, oriented in the same direction as us.
[Ifa] That was the impression I got.
[Nemnu] Hestur, do you think it best to keep Saza here? As an honoured guest - but one we can keep an eye on? I am inclined to expel her - not that I can keep her here against her will.
[Jevai] I am not sure, it may be more beneficial to have her gone
* Jevai looks at Kuspir
[Izu] Could we even keep an eye on her if she does not want us to?
[Jevai] Do you know how well the other stoneguards have done with guarding her? How confident are they?
[NemnostiGM] (she hasn't been causing trouble so far)
[Kuspir] (do I?)
[Kuspir] She has been out of their sight a few times, but so far as any of us know, she has not done anything suspect.
[Nemnu] My eyes have not worked in centuries, but I assure you that if I want to know where she is, at any time, I will.
[Nemnu] Do we have anything we think we can learn from her?
[Jevai] not willingly
[Alai] If she knows so much about their activities, we should just convince her to tell us.
[Nemnu] How do you propose to do so?
* Marga laughs nervously
[Alai] Ask, and if she chooses not to, its not as if there are no others here in Nemnosti who could not find a way to learn.
[Nemnu] Hestur?
* Jevai frowns slightly
[Nemnu] You are perhaps the best suited to do so.
[Jevai] Downward is difficult to predict. Anythhing she did say would need to be verified, and weight very carefully. She may be willign to gloat more to me, or perhaps not.
[Nemnu] Do so. But we will not be so foolish as to take what she says as truth.
[Jevai] Yes, lady
[Nemnu] And then we will need to decide whether your next trip should be to the high hills. Rechegoko, I assume you could lead the group to your family?
* Rechegoko stares at her, stunned and at a loss for words for a moment.
[Rechegoko] Ahh ... well ... yes, but ... but ... well ...
[Rechegoko] I do not wish to do so.
* Rechegoko says, with as much courage as he can muster.
[Marga] You can't ask him to do that.
[Nemnu] I cannot demand anything of him.
[Nemnu] But I can ask.
[Jevai] I am not sure that we areprepared to face them, Lady
[Nemnu] Perhaps not
[Kuspir] what would we be expected to do if we did find them?
[Nemnu] That is what we must decide. But you are right, we need to know more, before such a journey would be profitable.
* Rechegoko relaxes visibly.
[Nemnu] Then I ask you, because you have been most active in this matter for me: what steps would you advise next?
[Kuspir] well, if you think we need to know more, we should find a way to gain that knowledge
[Jevai] Alai, Do you think you cpuld divine whether there is a connection between the Naznaz and Gunumerai?
[Kuspir] or between them and Saza?
[Alai] It should be achievable for both... but the question would need to be specific for best results.
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] Perhaps I can learn something useful from Downward first
[Nemnu] Perhaps.
[Alai] A tradesman working for contract could be considered working together with thier client, for example, but not necessarily allies.
* Alai elaborates
* Kuspir nods
[Kuspir] and two parties could work towards the same goal without necessarily being partners or even aware of one another, I suppose
[Alai] delving without proper clarity could give cryptic or misleading answers.
[Nemnu] Very well. We are agreed, then.
[Nemnu] Is there anything else you needed to discuss with me?
[Alai] The presence... the force under the mountain. Have you sensed it? Do you know what it is?
[Jevai] Presence?
* Nemnu pauses (Izu, you are really confident that this is a Long Pause.)
[Nemnu] It is unrelated.
[Izu] Would... anyone care for more tea?
[Alai] Unrelated? How can that be? The earthquakes... it feels connected to them.
* Alai gives Jevai a look hopefully conveying a desire to talk afterward.
[Nemnu] I will speak to you of it later, if you wish. But it is unrelated.
[Marga] Oh it for sure is. Mother said so.
* Nemnu pauses (again).
* Alai takes a deep breath, focusing on years of practice to discipline her emotions.
[Marga] . o O (uh oh)
[Nemnu] Your Mother Ushukuna?
[Marga] Um... yes?
[Nemnu] I see.
[Nemnu] For now, keep your distance and maintain your focus as I have directed.
[Nemnu] I will speak to the Emperor on this matter.
[Alai] If it is for later to discuss, then we speak later.
[Nemnu] Very well.
[Nemnu] Thank you all, my beloved acolytes, for your honesty and your willing service.
Lona Tinef talks to Ifa about her fears about the attacks, and her concern with Azolte Rumnoska
[NemnostiGM] Ifa, your daily activities are fairly quiet these days. Afra's marriage is moving along (for now) and there are the usual range of duties, of course.
* Ifa will attend to hers dutifully.
[Ifa] (...I guess that's the only way to handle duties, derp)
[NemnostiGM] You are watching over the bubun folding linens when Lona Tinef enters the room. It's been quite a while since you talked to Lona, although she's been around the ulajeta regularly.
* Nemnu is now known as Lona
* Ifa offers a pleasant smile.
[Ifa] Hello Lona, how are you?
[Lona] Oh, I'm well, thank you, Hand Ifa. I mean ... well enough.
* Rechegoko is now known as Saza
[Ifa] Well enough? Is something amiss?
[Lona] Well, I'm not sure.
[Lona] I am worried, and my husband is worried, that I should not be coming here for the time being.
[Ifa] Why not?
[Lona] Well ... that I may be next.
[Ifa] (Is she a revenant to my knowledge?)
[NemnostiGM] (yes, she is)
[Ifa] (Ah, okay. I had checked the wiki, but it didn't say.)
[Ifa] I can certainly understand that fear.
[Ifa] But certainly the ulajeta is safer than elsewhere, without the guards and wards?
[Lona] Well, that's just it. I don't know. Surely not every revenant everywhere is being targeted. I haven't heard of anyone at home in Hertu, or in Naftusa, being targeted.
[Ifa] What about Surgu?
[Ifa] He wasn't part of the ulajeta.
[Ifa] And wasn't attacked here.
[Lona] Well, while he wasn't from here - everyone says he was killed because his sister is so important here, and deposited right at Istu Levunu.
[Ifa] I don't want to frighten you, and I'm not actually trying to convince one way or another, but you already also have connections to this place.
* Lona nods.
[Ifa] We still don't *actually* know why they've done what they've done and why they chose what targets they do.
[Ifa] So I just want you to be where it is safest, and I at least still think that's here.
[Lona] Is that why you and the big stoneguard fellow were in Hertu a couple weeks ago? Talking to the hengi of the Keronaf?
[Ifa] Perhaps we could organize more? Make sure people travel from the villages and back in groups, for safety?
* Lona smiles softly.
[Ifa] Oh, we were out there to talk to Azolte Rumnoska, but ultimately we didn't think it was related.
[Ifa] Poor woman just seemed like she needs a place to rebuild a bit.
* Lona frowns.
[Lona] Perhaps.
[Ifa] You don't think so?
[Lona] I don't know, Hand Ifa.
[Ifa] Tuvus had his suspicions, as well. I trust my judgement, but it's also good to hear different opinions.
[Ifa] Do you have concerns about her?
[Lona] My husband believes her presence is suspicious.
[Ifa] Does he think she's involved in the recent horribleness?
* Lona shrugs.
[Lona] I don't know. But he's a Keronaf and knows more about what goes on in their iftibal.
* Ifa nods.
[Ifa] I can talk to Kuspir about it. Perhaps we can speak to Azolte again.
[NemnostiGM] (you've never met her husband, as far as you recall)
[Ifa] Can't hurt to follow up.
* Lona smiles.
[Lona] Thank you, Hand Ifa. You know how to keep an old woman's stomach full of peace.
* Ifa returns the smile.
Alai finally talks to Nemnu, and they come to some kind of understanding, bonding by chatting about the Abyss
[NemnostiGM] Alai, it was defintely a little awkward being in Her presence again after so long. It was good that your companions were all around, though. Easier to avoid any awkward subjects.
[NemnostiGM] You don't know what to make of her offer to talk more about the earthquake and that strange voice.
[NemnostiGM] But if She knows more, and can help you to answer some of these questions, you'd be a fool to let a little one-on-one awkwardness get in the way.
[NemnostiGM] So you make the appropriate arrangements and can go upstairs to see Her later that same day, or the next day.
[Alai] (lets say later that day)
* Nemnu meets you in her small library adjacent to her chambers.
[Nemnu] Hello, Ozel. It is good to see you.
[Alai] All it took was something rather unique and interesting to discuss.
[Alai] My Lady
* Alai adds forgetting herself
[Nemnu] Well, you wanted to discuss some weighty matters.
[Nemnu] And while I do like the big young lad, it didn't seem that it was a subject to be discussed too broadly.
[Alai] I do agree the poor man was probably shaken enough as it is.
[Nemnu] He was raised to think that I am a monster.
[Nemnu] It takes such strength, such courage, to break away from that, at the cost of all you have known.
[Alai] His mind is sharper than his demeanor portrays. I've sensed it.
[Nemnu] Marga seems to enjoy his company.
[Alai] I'd be walking side to side most days if I was enjoying his company... but that has nothing to do with our discussion.
[Alai] The presence. You have felt it.
[Nemnu] It has never left me.
[Alai] It was just a touch... I tried to fathom the meaning... I felt such a dicotamy of rage loss, power and helplessness. You still feel it, truely?
[Nemnu] Tell me, how did you feel it?
[Alai] It was in the mountain, after the battle with the monster land turtle. I used the source to commune with the land. I was seeking if something was influnencing it. That monster was not the first we had run into after the earthquake.
[Alai] It was then I felt it touch me, briefly.
[Nemnu] Tell me, is it like or unlike when you feel the Abyss?
[Alai] It is similar, but different. Such vageness is meaningless. Words in this are difficult. I could show you how it felt, if you let me.
[Nemnu] Do so, yes.
* Alai will cast Mindlink and pass the experience on to Nemnu
[Alai] !roll 1d20+12
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+12 ] getting [ 19 ] which, after the modifier [ 12 ] totals [ 31 ].
* Alai gives Nemnu a moment to prepare and passes the experience along
[Alai] The Abyss is power, indulgence, chaos... this is different.
[Alai] but still power.
[Nemnu] Mmm .... yes, I see. Fascinating.
[Nemnu] Does it feel like this whenever you draw on Source?
[Alai] I do not need feel the Abyss when I draw on Source, like I just did. When I want more strength, more power, it is there for me.
[Alai] Which makes me wonder if this presence could be there for the same use... and at what price?
[Nemnu] It is not the same. But there are those who would use it.
[Alai] Is that what the Hulti seek? To use it... unleash the rage and power. It felt like it would shatter the land.
[Nemnu] The Hulti, if they know its presence and have any sense of its nature, would seek to destroy it
[Alai] The nature of it, the stone itself, could be tempting to a Sigillant. Attuned to thier affinity.
[Nemnu] Perhaps. The stone is just a sign, not the thing itself, just as the weather vane is not the wind.
[Alai] Knowing the direction of the flow is useful.
[Nemnu] If I were to ask you to leave it alone, would you do so? At least for now.
* Alai pauses to ponder.
[Nemnu] I know you are willful, Ozel, but this is a danger that I can neither fully explain nor contain.
[Alai] I will comply with your wishes, for a consideration from You.
[Nemnu] Oh, what is that?
[Alai] Time.. time for discussions like this. On Source. I have learned much and and still learning, but I know there is more I am able to learn from You.
[Nemnu] Of that, I have no doubt. The fine teachers in Ardukh are, I am sure, very interesting. And you have clearly learned more than a little about duelling, as I hear. But there is so much more.
[Alai] Then we are agreed?
[Nemnu] We are.
* Alai smiles
[Alai] The rumbling mountain will rest undisturbed for the time being. The Hulti may not appreciate my full attention.
[Nemnu] Understood.
Kuspir goes to rescue Rugu who has decided to camp out and stand guard outside Zurusha’s chambers
[NemnostiGM] Kuspir, a couple days later, you are on guard at the West Gate in the evening. It's quiet - this time of year, there are few pilgrims, since many will be coming in just a couple months for Romokh. Still, you keep vigilant.
[NemnostiGM] It's around an hour past sunset when Bem comes jogging towards you from the direction of Carver's Hall.
* Saza is now known as Bem
[Bem] Sir, there's a matter that needs your attention.
[Kuspir] What is it?
[Bem] It's your son. He's taken up a post. Outside your wife's room, sir.
[Kuspir] Oh. All right. Can you take over here while I go and see him?
[Bem] Yes, of course.
[Kuspir] Thank you.
* Kuspir will go off to see what's happening.
[NemnostiGM] You head off to Zurusha's chambers in the Carver's Hall, which is in a side passage where there is little foot traffic normally, on the second floor.
[NemnostiGM] You go that way and find Rugu standing at attention, a short spear in hand, outside the door.
* Nemnu is now known as Rugu
[Kuspir] Son... what is the matter?
* Kuspir asks gently
[Rugu] I am standing guard. Until feet fail.
[NemnostiGM] From deep within the chambers, you can hear soft whimpering.
[Kuspir] I see. You are worried about your mother?
[Rugu] They are coming for her. Everyone says so.
[Kuspir] There are many people to protect her.
[Kuspir] And in her room, she is as safe as can be.
[Rugu] But what if someone comes by?
[Rugu] You can't protect her while you're protecting the whole ulajeta.
[Kuspir] By protecting the whole ulajeta, I'm protecting her - and everyone here. And if she had an emergency, she has a bell she can use to bring help.
[Kuspir] I know you want to help. I respect that. It's very brave of you.
[Rugu] I wanted her to see my drawings.
* Kuspir nods
[Kuspir] You can put them with the things to go into her room.
[Kuspir] (I assume there's like a slot or a place to put things)
[Rugu] I put them in the slot.
[Kuspir] That's good.
[Kuspir] She will be glad to see them, I'm sure.
* Kuspir puts a hand on Rugu's shoulder.
[Kuspir] But it's not your responsibility to guard her. We will look after her safety.
[Rugu] I drew me guarding her.
[Rugu] So she knows I am protecting her.
* Kuspir nods
[Kuspir] She knows. But she wants you to live your life for yourself, not only for her. You need to do your studies, and have time to practice and to play and to rest. And you cannot do all of those things if you're worried about guarding her.
[Rugu] It's not fair that I don't get to be worried.
* Kuspir crouches down to be closer to his son's level
[Kuspir] I can't tell you not to be worried. What you feel in kidneys is not something I can make you give up. But I promise you that I, and the other stoneguards, and the sentinels as well, are doing all we can to make sure people here are safe.
[Rugu] Grandfather is old and crippled and he can help. I'm young but I can help too!
[Kuspir] hmm, it's true. What if I give you a specific job to do, that would be a help?
* Rugu nods bravely.
[Kuspir] My team are looking for any new carvings in stone around Nemnosti. I know you and your friends go everywhere, so if you see any carvings that you don't remember seeing before, it's important to let me know. And the other thing you could do, that would be a big help, is work with your aunt Ifa in helping repair armor and weapons for the stoneguards.
* Rugu considers.
[Rugu] I want her to be protected.
[Kuspir] Those would both be very helpful things you could do, that will help with protecting her and everyone here.
[Rugu] All right.
[Kuspir] But I could talk to one of the magic-users and see if there is more we could do to defend her, too. There may be more wards that could be put up, or something like that.
[Kuspir] And... if you feel like you need to come here and keep watch sometimes, I understand that. But I don't want it to get in the way of your studies or your rest. Your mother wouldn't want that either.
[Rugu] All right.
* Kuspir gets up and pats his son on the shoulder again
[Kuspir] Now, it is getting late - so let's go and see your sister, and we can have a treat before bedtime.
[Rugu] Okay.
* Rugu picks up his spear and takes it along with him, just in case.
Marga watches over Fultukhari during his penance, and then Rechegoko shows up and they talk awkwardly friendship(?)
[NemnostiGM] Marga, after your regular duties conclude - the usual scouting, foraging, and so on that you do most mornings - you have returned for a special duty this afternoon: babysitting!
[NemnostiGM] Your young charge, Fultukhari Nemni, got himself in a heck of a lot of trouble the other week at the Lanky Stones. As punishment, he gets to pull weeds out in the South Garden, at the east side of the ulajeta.
[NemnostiGM] It also gives you a chance to keep an eye on the little hatchery for the tolbilba eggs that you and Meze put together.
[NemnostiGM] Fultukhari is, at least for the moment, working reasonably hard on the weeding.
* Rugu is now known as Fultukhari
[Fultukhari] I wonder if these weeds are good to eat? That way we could just grow them out and then have them for dinner instead of picking them.
[Fultukhari] Hey, Marga? Do you think I can eat these?
[Marga] Ummm... (can he)
[NemnostiGM] (you look at them ... they won't hurt him)
[Marga] You *can*... I dunno if they're very good.
* Fultukhari eats one, and makes a face.
[Fultukhari] Ugh.
* Fultukhari sticks a few in his pocket though.
[Fultukhari] Can you turn into a vulture for me? That would be cool, and inspire me to do a good job.
* Marga scratches her head.
[Marga] Why?
[Fultukhari] Because someday I'm going to be a vulture like you!
[Marga] I can only do that like, once a day though...
[Fultukhari] Oh.
[Fultukhari] Well, okay, some other time.
[NemnostiGM] As you are watching your young charge work, you see Rechegoko approaching down the pathway.
* Bem is now known as Rechegoko
* Marga waves enthusiastically.
[Marga] Hi!
* Rechegoko smiles and waves back.
[Rechegoko] Hi! They said you were out here.
[Marga] Yeah!
[Rechegoko] How's it going?
[Marga] Oh pretty good. This is Fultukhari. We're just pulling some weeds :)
[Marga] this is my friend Rechegoko :)
[Fultukhari] Hi! You're huge!
* Rechegoko laughs.
[Rechegoko] So I hear.
[Fultukhari] Is he your boyfriend?
[Marga] Ahahaha... no, I don't have a boyfriend....
* Rechegoko stands there, unsure what to do.
* Rechegoko is definitely some kind of shade of red.
* Marga too
[Fultukhari] Are you a vulture too, Rechegoko?
* Rechegoko nods.
[Rechegoko] Sure am.
[Fultukhari] So when there are two vultures who change form to birds, and they mate, does the lady vulture lay eggs?
[Rechegoko] Uhhh...
[Marga] Um...
* Marga scratches her head.
[Marga] I mean...
* Marga thinks real hard
[Marga] (well does she??)
[Fultukhari] You could experiment and figure it out, if you don't know the answer. That's what my mom always says to do.
[Marga] That's a pretty high stakes experiment!!
[Fultukhari] Yeah, I guess so.
[Fultukhari] If the egg hatched would it be a bird or a human?
[Fultukhari] Like a little baby, smaller than a regular baby though, to fit in the egg.
[Rechegoko] I don't think so.
[Rechegoko] We can't stay in vulture form too long.
[Fultukhari] Oh, right. That makes sense.
[Fultukhari] What happens when a lady vulture gets pregnant, and then turns into bird form? What happens to the baby?
[Marga] (surely I must have some idea about that)
[Fultukhari] (yeah, the baby doesn't turn into an egg or something, although where it actually goes is A Mystery.)
[Marga] Nobody really knows...
[Marga] It's kind of just... not there when they're a bird?
[Fultukhari] Cool! I wonder whether it is like where my chalk for my slate keeps going. I can never find it.
[Marga] Haha, maybe!
[Rechegoko] So, uhh, I was hoping to talk to Marga for a minute, Fultukhari.
[Rechegoko] Can you go back to your weeding for a bit and then I'll think more about your question.
[Fultukhari] Uhh, sure!
* Fultukhari goes back over to the weeds, and Rechegoko pulls you away from the kid, a little bit, but you can still keep an eye on him.
[Rechegoko] So, uhh ... I wanted to say thanks.
[Marga] You're welcome! For what?
[Rechegoko] With Nemnu, yesterday.
[Rechegoko] Just for ... you know.
[Marga] Aw, well... I was happy to do it.
[Rechegoko] She is ... well, I can see why people care about Her.
[Rechegoko] I'd never met a saint before.
[Marga] Yeah... She can be a lot, though.
[Rechegoko] It's hard to even be in Her presence. It's beautiful, but you always feel like you don't know what face to make, or where to put your hands.
[Marga] I guess I sort of forgot what it's like, the first time... You did great!
[Rechegoko] So, uhh ... am I allowed to stay, I guess?
[Marga] You want to stay? :D
[Marga] I mean... yes!
[Rechegoko] I mean ... can I be honest?
[Marga] Of course!
[Rechegoko] The main thing I was thinking, going into the room with the cookies, was not that I was scared of Her. I was scared She'd tell me I had to leave.
[Marga] Ohhh... but I thought you liked it, up in the hills.
[Rechegoko] I do.
[Rechegoko] But I, uhh ... I like being here with you.
[Marga] Well.. .I sure like having you around too.
[Rechegoko] And maybe, you know, we can help each other out and stuff.
[Marga] I'd like that.
* Rechegoko smiles, still all red in the ears.
[Fultukhari] Kiss him! Kiss him!
* Fultukhari interjects from his weeding, which has clearly gone by the wayside.
[Marga] Oh, uh...
* Marga blushes as well, having forgotten he was there
[Marga] Uhhh... N-not now Fultukhari
[Rechegoko] Get back to work!
[Marga] (q) Sorry, sorry!
[Rechegoko] It's fine.
[Rechegoko] Maybe, uhhh, we can go out scouting together sometime.
[Marga] That would be great!
* Rechegoko smiles.
[Marga] I mean, it would be really nice to... spend time with you
[Rechegoko] Yeah. Definitely.
[NemnostiGM] Until next we gather by the firelight, young acolytes ...
Jevai talks to Saza about her relationship with the Naznaz sigillant, Saza’s ill intentions, and Ushukuna
[NemnostiGM] Jevai, while you're not exactly thrilled about the prospect of talking to Saza, at least Nemnu has backed away from Her plan to comply with Saza's demands.
[NemnostiGM] Now your task is to talk to her, learn what you can (if anything) about her goals and intentions, and then tell her (politely) that her presence here is no longer welcome.
* Nemnu is now known as Lona
[Jevai] (goody. I guess I go find her)
* Rechegoko is now known as Saza
* Saza isn't too hard to find, when she's not trying not to be found. You track her down in one of the sitting rooms in Carver's Hall, reading a book, while a stoneguard keeps watch nearby.
[Jevai] Hello Downward, what are you reading?
[Saza] Pictures, child, just pictures.
[Saza] I never got the knack of this.
[Saza] I do know my letters, I just don't care to know any more.
[Jevai] well, pictures of what?
* Saza turns the book around to show you.
[Saza] Sketches of the Pardopasu.
[Saza] I will give the old crone this, she knows a beautiful location when she sees one.
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] I'm sure there was more that aestherics to influence her choice, but it is beautiful
[Saza] So what brings you here? Friendly chat with a beloved mentor?
[Jevai] what were you looking for?
[Saza] Hmm? Oh, in the book?
[Jevai] yes.
[Saza] Surely I was looking for pictures of long-lost standing stones to further my nefarious plans.
[Jevai] I would fine it hard to believe there are still stones out there you haven't found
[Jevai] (find)
[Saza] Well, then perhaps I just like pretty pictures.
[Jevai] Well, perhaps so.
[Saza] Well then, Pebble, what do you want?
[Jevai] Downward, you know that I respect your skills, and I know you are not to be underestimated
* Saza nods.
[Jevai] But I also think you have never been interested in being either friendly or beloved
[Saza] To you, no.
[Jevai] I trust that in all things you follow your own interests above others
* Saza nods.
[Jevai] But I can't fathom what those interests are now.
[Saza] Hmm. Interesting.
[Jevai] is it?
[Saza] I think so.
[Saza] It's interesting that you mistrust me so much that you haven't even asked what my interests are.
[Jevai] I am trying, Downward
[Jevai] It always catches me by surprise that you find anything I do to be of much interest to you
[Saza] Only insofar as what Nemnu does is of interest to me, and you do her bidding.
[Jevai] Nemnu Ula is my teacher, like you. She does not command me, but neither does she desire or require blind obedience.
[Saza] If only I could have dreamed of blind obedience from you.
[Jevai] I make my own choices, Downward.
[Saza] Poor ones, mainly.
[Jevai] Of, of course.
[Jevai] So then - what are your interests?
[Saza] Looking at picture books.
* Saza smiles smugly.
[Jevai] what are you trying to accomplish, here, or with the Hulti up in the high hills?
[Saza] Here? I'm just enjoying the scenery and the hospitality, while I wait for an answer.
[Jevai] And there?
[Jevai] I hear that the leader of the NazNaz is a powerful sigillant
[Saza] Do you, now? Who says that?
[Jevai] I've heard it from several sources now
[Saza] Well, then that would explain it.
[Jevai] explain what?
[Saza] If there were a powerful sigillant who none of us had heard of, you don't think I'd want to talk to them?
[Jevai] That is exactly what I thought. I wondered if there was anything i the old ways that had been kept by them that pertains to our stone lore.
[Saza] Or who knows, maybe I am just lonely and am looking for a friend.
[Jevai] you know, I woud hope.
[Jevai] but nothing ever has to be one thing or the other
[Saza] If I do know a Hulti sigillant from the high hills, why would I possibly tell you about that? What would that benefit me?
* Lona is now known as Nemnu
[Jevai] how can I answer that without knowing your interests, Downward?
[Saza] You can reassure Nemnu that I have no personal interest in working against her.
[Jevai] Why would I tell her something so meaningless?
[Saza] Would it satisfy her?
[Jevai] no.
[Saza] Very well, then. There is a Hulti sigillant, like you say, the Naznaz, in the high hills. Where he has made a business of not being found, and with many protections to ensure his people's privacy. And yes, Pebble, he is my friend.
[Saza] Does that satisfy you?
[Jevai] I'm glad that you have a friend, Downward. I am sorry that it puts us in such opposition.
[Saza] You know as well as I do, Jevai, that your beloved Lady is full of secrets, lies, even crimes. All in the name of Her beloved acolytes and Her ulajeta.
[Jevai] I do.
[Saza] But you have seen it - She is corruptible. You know this.
[Jevai] as a person?
[Jevai] How couls anyone endure for so long as a sentient kind and make no mistakes and have no regrets?
[Jevai] I do not think her infallible, no
[Saza] Some regrets are unforgivable.
[Saza] The Great Purge is not just a long-ago history story in one of Her precious books, to some.
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] You find her actions unforgivable? Or is this your friend's perspective?
[Saza] I am learning so much, Pebble - about our craft, to be sure, but about this place, even more.
[Saza] Hulti are misguided, but in such an interesting way.
[Jevai] how do you mean?
[Jevai] I know they do not believe that we shouod keep relationships with ancestors or other kinds, that the feel Bubune and shororhe and even saints are evil, but not why
[Saza] Well, no one could plausibly think that saints and bubun and revenants are all violations of nature. They exist, so they are part of Coherence.
[Jevai] is that not what they believe?
[Saza] They do.
[Saza] So, as I say. They are wrong about that. But in giving that up, they gain some perspective.
[Jevai] what is that?
[Saza] A relationship with nature that I think we have surrendered, to some extent.
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] Spirits?
[Saza] That's a word we could use.
[Jevai] other powers, then
[Jevai] from the natural world
[Jevai] Beings like Ushukuna?
* Saza frowns.
[Saza] Perhaps?
[Saza] You know that the Naznaz have their own name for Her? Your friend would know it.
[Jevai] Hmm.
[Saza] In the old language - well, it is not so old now, because they speak it still.
[Saza] She is called Ashok Una.
[Jevai] What does that mean?
[Saza] You'd need to ask your friend about the Ashok part. That is just a name, to my knowledge.
[Saza] But Una and Ula, they are the same word.
[Saza] So, you see, I think their relationship to Ushukuna is complicated. She is like a saint, but not in the same way as human saints.
[Jevai] fascinting
[Saza] I'm sure you would have figured it out eventually.
[Saza] Given enough time.
[Jevai] I can see why you find them so interesting
* Saza laughs.
[Saza] That is one way of looking at it.
[Jevai] Do you think that these peolpe are responsible for the murders that we seen here?
[Saza] Not in the way you mean.
[Saza] But yes, they are involved.
[Jevai] and they cannot be satisfied in any other way than through retribution?
[Saza] You'd need to ask them.
[Jevai] would they be open to a discussion?
[Saza] I think that I could introduce you to the Naznaz - just you. Not your friends. Not a group that appears to be from Nemnosti.
[Jevai] I would accept this
[Saza] But make no mistake, Pebble. You are stupid enough to try to bring others along, or to have them watching from afar, or any trickery, and I do not think there is much I can do to help you.
[Jevai] I wouldn't arrange it, but I can't stop them either
[Saza] And as for my proposal? Having heard no answer yet, I am not too optimistic.
[Jevai] I am afraid the lady has not agreed.
[Saza] Ah well. Hopefully your stoneguards can keep this place safe from any unwelcome intruders.
* Jevai nods
[Saza] Until we talk next, then, Pebble.
[Jevai] until then, Downward.
Alai talks to Jevai about Hulti, their ancient temple, and their present schemes
* Alai will track down Jevai.
* Jevai was going to do the same, so that works out!
[Jevai] I don't jhave any beer, but my room is tidier, so we can talk there if you like
[Alai] So you have cleaned up. That is good, at least I hope it is good. Lets go
[Jevai] You'll have to tell me
* Jevai smiles, and will lead the way back to her room, whoch has new art on the walls, abstracted ravre style figures
* Alai gives the artwork a critical eye.
[Alai] Is good, maybe not my style, but I am no artist either.
[Alai] Are those two supposed to be fucking?
* Alai guestures a pair of figures
[Jevai] it's good luck ;)
[Alai] thats one way to describe it.
* Alai gives a sly smile
[Alai] I am sorry I did not discuss the mountain with you before meeting with the Lady. I truely meant to.
[Jevai] its alright, it's been very busy and I have been hard to find
[Jevai] but what is it?
[Alai] I was communing after fighing the walking hill turtle thing, as I was curious since its not first monster we've run into since the earthquake.
[Alai] I touched something, a presence... a something... while doing so. powerful.
[Alai] It touched me too.
* Alai runs the back of her hand across her cheek
[Jevai] Marga said that something escaped then....
[Jevai] I keep wondering if we nleshed something more than we knew at that old temple
[Alai] Is possible, but I feel if this power was being held at the temple, its strong enough it would likely have been free eventually regardless.
[Alai] And She thinks the Hulti would be more likely to try and destroy it than trap it.
[Jevai] if they could\
[Jevai] so, she knows what it is?
[Alai] maybe. She would not tell me, and asked me to leave it be for now.
[Jevai] hmm
[Jevai] I spoke with Downward
[Jevai] she admitted that she is close with the Hulti, and told me some about them
[Alai] Candid revelations were more than I expected. Anything useful?
[Jevai] she said, if I understant correctly, that the Naznaz are not directly responsbible but they are ivoled, regarding the murders
[Jevai] She said she may be able to take me to speak with them... but me alone
[Alai] that feels... high risk?
[Jevai] yes, but potentially high reward
[Alai] I would do it in an instant, in your shoes, but am not making such decisions for you.
* Jevai smiles
[Jevai] no, but I appreciate that.
[Jevai] I will go, if she can arrange it, butI will do my best to safeguard myself as well
[Alai] as right you should.
[Alai] If you could, fashion a stone of Word of Recall, just as a precaution, before you go.
[Alai] I'd miss you dearly if you never came back.
[Jevai] that is a good one to try
[Jevai] More difficult for me, but I will try it
[Alai] You have skill. It be fine.
[Alai] At least the information you got saves at least one divination.
[Alai] from what you said, I assume they are just harbouring the murderer.
[Jevai] I'm not sure
[Jevai] it is possibel that they are both part of a larger movement and not operating in concert
[Jevai] but I will learn what I can, when the time comes
* Alai nods
[Alai] I'll glean what I can as well. You've given me some ideas on what to look at.
[Jevai] yes, same.
[Alai] I'll see if I can get some wine brought in for our next deep discussion.
* Alai winks
[Jevai] thank you.... or I could just go home and see my father...
