Nemnosti session 12
Summary
Session
- Session date: August 4, 2024
- Negili Reckoning date: IE 768, Dezhiri
Prologue
Welcome, acolytes! I know it's a hot Dezhiri day, so we'll keep the fire low. And here ... let me conjure up a small breeze for us. It's not much, but then, I was never much for the mystic's craft. And of course, that is surely the point. Each of us acolytes serves Her in our own way. Some are called to fight; some to read; some to speak. Holy orders or a mystic's sash or a sentinel's blade - all these are the Lady's tools. I will not speak platitudes to you tonight, young acolytes - tell you falsely that you can be whatever you want, or to follow your dreams whatever they may be. We are not fools, here around the fire. We know when we're being hoodwinked. Rather, let us say that you have many paths ahead of you, and that like the river's path once chosen, your choice constrains your paths going forward. But there is always a choice, even if it is not an evident one at the time. So best for you to keep yourselves open - for who is to say when a new experience will change the course of your life forever?
Marga goes scouting with Lijun Ararta around Ichivang Sogo and Vulusilt
[NemnostiGM] Marga, the last few weeks have been quiet ones. Meze has kept up the practice of doubling up on scouting patrols, just in case there is something weird going on, but so far, nothing special. Kinda nice really.
[NemnostiGM] You don't mind getting up early and getting out on the Ghengom or the Turtu, surveying the area, on your own. You're at your best when you don't have to think about other people.
[Marga] :)
[NemnostiGM] So you were a little miffed - well, more surprised and confused - when Meze told you last night that Lijun Ararta would be accompanying you on patrol. Not that you mind the Long Sable - he's quiet and keeps to himself, and knows a lot about the lands and waters. But still, it's a little weird.
[NemnostiGM] You meet Lijun at the courtyard near the East Tower just at daybreak.
[Marga] Mornin'!
* Lijun is dressed in a long grey-green juskai cinched with a thick goatskin belt. His bow and spear are strapped to his back.
[Lijun] Hello, Marga. Ready?
[Marga] Yup! What's the plan?
[Lijun] Go by foot. That way if we find something, we can come back by wing swiftly.
[Marga] Okie dokie!
[Lijun] I thought south, up across to the old Ichivang Sogo ruins and Vulusilt.
[Marga] Sounds good to me. :)
[NemnostiGM] You head out and make good time. It's early still, so the brutal Dezhiri sun won't affect your travels. You can tell it's going to be a hot one though.
* Marga hums quietly
[NemnostiGM] You seem happy.
[NemnostiGM] (ww)
[Lijun] You seem happy.
[Marga] I guess so!
[Marga] I dunno, it's easier than being sad.
* Lijun laughs quietly to himself.
[Lijun] That it is. Good to have a life where that is an option.
[Lijun] It's good to be out again. It's been a while.
[Marga] Oh? How come? Is it because of the, uh, Hulti stuff?
* Lijun nods.
[Lijun] Both Meze and I agreed that revenants maybe shouldn't be on patrol.
[Marga] Oh, that stinks. Is that why she sent us together?
* Lijun pauses.
[Lijun] It's why I asked for you to come with me, yes.
[Marga] You asked for *me*?
[Lijun] I did.
[Lijun] Is that so surprising?
[Marga] I mean... I'm just wondering why me and not someone else. I don't mind, just curious :)
[Lijun] Maybe I just thought you were a nice person to travel with.
[Marga] Well it's true, I am :)
[Lijun] You have good skills, and you don't waste time or energy.
[Marga] Thanks!
[Marga] I like traveling with you too. :)
[Lijun] Meze trusts you a lot. That's why the Lady chose you to serve Her on this whole, uhh, Hulti stuff, like you say.
[Marga] Aw, nice.
[Lijun] I have to remind myself you're not my student anymore. I keep wanting to lecture as I do to the acolytes.
[Marga] Haha, what do you want to lecture me about?
[Lijun] Well, we're coming up on Ichivang Sogo, the old village.
* Marga nods.
[Lijun] My grandmother was born there.
[Marga] (do I know what happened to it? like, why it's ruins?)
[NemnostiGM] (make a K:local or K:geography)
[Marga] !roll 1d20+7
* Lan-werk rolls for Marga: [ 1d20+7 ] getting [ 11 ] which, after the modifier [ 7 ] totals [ 18 ].
[NemnostiGM] Marga, you believe that the streams in this area used to be much bigger, but have mostly dried up now. So basically, not enough water anymore.
[Marga] (how long ago was that?)
[NemnostiGM] (like 70-80 years ago, it was abandoned)
[Marga] So she was living here when they decided to leave?
[Lijun] She was the daughter of the hengi. The Arartas are a mirifti, a matriclan. So it wasn't only her decision, but she was almost grown then, and so she was on the council.
[Marga] That must have been a hard choice.
[Lijun] She missed the old days, but she was a pragmatic woman. She never came back here after that, though.
* Marga nods.
[Lijun] I think we imagine all the good times in places like these, lost towns, as if nothing terrible or annoying or boring ever happened here. Which it did, every day.
* Lijun surveys the bits of wall that remain, even one or two houses that could almost be livable with some work.
[Marga] Just like anywhere else.
* Lijun nods.
[Lijun] Which is not to say there are no special places. Vulusilt, for one.
* Lijun looks to the southeast where the great ruined tower still makes an imposing stand against the south-facing hills of the southern part of the province.
[Marga] What was it?
[Lijun] But I don't need to tell you that, Ivis. Your dimirabas spent much time there.
[Marga] Oh really?
[Marga] Doing what?
[Lijun] You sure you want a lecture?
[Marga] I have time, why not! :)
[Lijun] Well, Vulusilt was one of the first fortifications built in the province, once the Lady arrived. This was when there was still the Empire, but late in those days. So things were chaotic and confusing, kind of like things are now, I suppose.
[Lijun] So Khutu and Daligash and Taizi, those were just provinces, all ruled from the Imperial City.
[Lijun] But like I say, a lot of chaos, brigands, militias, one ifti set against the other, with each hengi out for their own benefit instead of the greater good.
* Marga nods.
[Lijun] So Vulusilt was built to protect Nemnosti, but also the whole province, from the lowlanders.
[Marga] And what was Ivis' role here?
[Lijun] Your namesake Ivis was old country Ravre - spoke the old language, I think? But she came to serve the Lady when many of us were still skeptical of Her. Standing watch here at Vulusilt, three months out of every year, even into her old age. Even as the Empire fell. Even as Taizi and Khutu fell into war.
[Lijun] I know more about the place than about her - you would need to ask her yourself.
[Marga] Yeah... I guess.
[Lijun] I know, it is an odd thing. That the Lady has picked a person for you, and we are supposed to appreciate them or something.
[Marga] Uh huh... "you get to be my dead friend now". Well alright, I guess.
[Lijun] My dimirabas was a crab fisher named Alfun. I don't know what message I'm supposed to take from that. I just live my own life and try not to worry about it.
[Lijun] I have enough other things to worry about.
[Marga] Same here.
[Lijun] Well, listen, you've heard enough of my rambling. Perhaps we should start circling around and heading back.
[Marga] Alrighty!
[NemnostiGM] You turn around and head back towards the ulajeta, with a sense that Lijun left quite a bit unsaid, but that's all right - he's entitled to his own thoughts.
Jevai talks to Eng-dur about Hulti, the disturbance in the Ghengom, and whether removing the knife caused the earthquake
[NemnostiGM] Jevai, it's been a while since you gathered by the Lanky Stones at the new moon. It's still uneasy, and there are still stoneguards there, but you can get Kuspir to make all the necessary arrangements. Tonight, Bem Pekai is on guard, at a safe distance where she can't hear you talk to yourself / Eng-dur.
[NemnostiGM] (do you have any preparations / precautions you're taking?)
[Jevai] (Same as last time I think, but I'll have some paints and stuff with me)
[NemnostiGM] The shadows under starlight come into form, and Eng-dur apparates before you.
* Lijun is now known as Eng-dur
[Eng-dur] Hello, my dear Pebble.
[Jevai] Hello Upward
[Eng-dur] How have things been, here where rain falls and sun shines?
[Jevai] Turbulent. And where you are? No more movements?
[Jevai] (earthquakes is what I should havesaid oh well)
[Eng-dur] No earthquakes, or whatever that was last time. But ... a surge?
[Eng-dur] It is easy to be complacent, and not realize that everything is slowly getting ... noisier?
[Eng-dur] I am sorry, Pebble, I do not have the right words for any of this.
[Jevai] Hmm.
[Jevai] It was static for so long, any change is notable. But as far as you can perceive, you are alone?
[Eng-dur] Well ... almost alone. Perhaps less alone than I had thought? Did we talk about this last time? Some of these things, it is confusing whether I was talking to the real Pebble, or the Pebble I talk to when I am ... well, like you say, alone.
[Jevai] there is a pebble you talk to then?
* Eng-dur laughs.
[Eng-dur] Just the version of you that I chat to when I'm lonely.
[Jevai] well... I can't say I don't do the same
[Jevai] But I thkn you mentined... something last time.
[Eng-dur] Did I now?
[Jevai] Well, the earthquake
[Jevai] You also mentioned a spirit...
[Jevai] out towards where theearthquake we felt in this world was located
[Jevai] Ushukuna told Marga that something buried out there has been disturbed, perhaps awakened
[Eng-dur] Ah yes! The spirit is not new. But also not old, if that makes sense.
[Jevai] and Alai was able to connect with it as well, through the source, briefly
[Jevai] I don't know if it is the same thing you speak of
[Eng-dur] Fascinating.
[Jevai] but, it may be related to *your* earthquake
[Eng-dur] Like I said, or perhaps was starting to meander, I do think that this place I am in ... again, the word is not right ... is ... fuller than it was?
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] pleaase, be careful.
[Eng-dur] You know how you enter a house and there 's just a sense of someone else being there, or having been there. It could be this spirit.
[Eng-dur] After all, perhaps I am a spirit.
* Jevai nods
[Eng-dur] I do know that the spirit is not of deep antiquity.
[Jevai] Or perhaps we understand little of 'spirits' and similar creatures
[Jevai] but what can you tell me of the one you know?
[Eng-dur] It was not always there, in my ancestors' time. Within living memory of people who I knew.
[Eng-dur] Perhaps a hundred years?
[Eng-dur] We were just told to avoid the area entirely.
[Jevai] there is an area out that way that I was told is a Haunt
[Eng-dur] Well, yes, that is the word that gets thrown around. And I am not saying it is wrong. Just uncertain.
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] but you don’t know anything more about it?
[Eng-dur] I don't know if a haunt can cause an earthquake.
[Eng-dur] I know that we were told not to ask, not to speak of it, just to avoid it.
[Jevai] told by whom?
[Eng-dur] The priests in the villages, the reckoners, the Chuchuru elders. The usual cabal of people who tell you not to do things.
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] we were travelling with Rechegoko Naznaz, and he told us the same
[Jevai] Do you know of the Naznaz?
[Eng-dur] Naznaz. Now that's a name I haven't heard in a long time. But yes, I know them, or of them. More like a legend. Like the wild hairy men of the hills who would come and snatch away your children.
[Jevai] They are real - Hulti, led by a Sigillant... who Downward has befriended
[Eng-dur] The Chuchuru are not so far off from that ourselves - we shouldn't be so glib.
[Eng-dur] Hulti, you say? You know this to a certainty?
[Jevai] Yes.
[Eng-dur] Fascinating.
[Eng-dur] I wish I could be there.
[Jevai] So do I
[Jevai] Downward says they have retained much of our craft that has been lost to us - and that their beliefs allow them a closer relationship with what we would consider to be spirits
[Eng-dur] I wonder what the Hulti would think of me. Nothing good, I'm sure.
[Jevai] probably not.
[Jevai] Will you tell me what happened to you, in the high hills?
[Jevai] what were you doing?
* Eng-dur pauses.
[Eng-dur] I thought I was telling you, just now.
[Eng-dur] Not about the Naznaz, but about ... Kinds, I suppose.
[Eng-dur] About the Kinds that are not Kinds.
* Jevai listens
[Eng-dur] I have never been one to care about proprieties, you know that. They call me savage? Fine. They call me uncouth? Fine. Why not add unbeliever to that?
[Eng-dur] So yes, you surely know this, based on all those books I had you read for me, I was interested in how Kinds come into being.
* Jevai nods
[Eng-dur] So if we believe the Epiphany of Zunuga, one woman, once, was given the secret to creating two new kinds, shororre and bubunne, and an understanding of the third, the ulale.
[Eng-dur] I do not disbelieve it, I just came to think of it as incomplete.
* Jevai nods
[Eng-dur] And so I looked into many things. When I was a young man, long before you, I was interested in the amnir, the effigies that herbalists create.
[Eng-dur] Are these a kind too?
[Eng-dur] I came to think that they were, and if so, then others still beyond.
[Jevai] Ozh Laigrunuf told me that the Ravre used to think of hills as Kinds, when they were first introduced to the Corps beliefs
[Jevai] I found that interesting, and it made me think of you
[Eng-dur] Hmm, yes, I see.
[Jevai] we encountered a massive tortoise creature a [whatever they are called -_-], and I'd thought maybe that was what they meant - ambulatory hills of some sort
[Jevai] but I;m less sure
[Jevai] did I tell you about the knife we retrieved from the Hulti temple?
[Eng-dur] Yes, I think you did.
[Jevai] it was after we removed it that the earthquake happened. Not immediately, but after
[Eng-dur] Minutes after? Hours after? Days after?
[Jevai] it was buried in the earth with a slate above it
[Jevai] hmmm... I wuld say no more than half an hour
[Jevai] (does that sound right?)
[Eng-dur] (yup)
[Eng-dur] That is ... more than a coincidence, Pebble.
[Jevai] yes, I keep thiking this
[Eng-dur] A magical device that anchors things, buried ritually beneath a temple ... well. It seems obvious.
[Jevai] yes.
[Eng-dur] So perhaps next time I will tell you about how I came to be how I am, in my state.
[Jevai] :/
* Jevai nods, lnowing the time is growing short
[Eng-dur] You must promise me that you will not attempt to recreate my folly.
[Jevai] Of course.
[Eng-dur] Then we will talk next time about how I have self-cursed myself into this between-ness.
* Eng-dur starts to flicker.
[Jevai] Pleaase take care
[Eng-dur] I will, Pebble.
[Eng-dur] And you as well.
Alai toys with Avrubai; he expresses interest in her dark power, but settles for getting into her pants
[NemnostiGM] Alai, you have been spending the last few weeks remembering the most annoying thing about this place, which is that for a month or so a year, it is both impossibly hot and impossibly dry. At least by midsummer it will be a bit rainier, like home.
[NemnostiGM] You're hanging around in the statue garden this afternoon, in the shade of the trees and the shadow of the ulajeta and the mountains, the one place that almost never gets direct sunlight.
[NemnostiGM] You are reading quietly when you hear footsteps coming down the stairs atop the mausoleum, and look up to see Avrubai Dusmanis walking down and around into the courtyard.
* Eng-dur is now known as Avrubai
* Alai is her lightest, loosest Altala, off white with greeen and blue scroll work, and a minimal amount of bracelets.
* Avrubai smiles broadly, apparently his spirit undamaged from the brutal smackdown you laid upon him.
[Avrubai] They said I might find you out here.
* Alai gives as much a smile back as she can in this oppressive heat, even in the shade.
[Alai] I'd been under water, but pages fall apart when wet.
* Avrubai laughs.
[Avrubai] Reading anything good?
[Alai] History of Blue Storm... is rather lacking.
* Alai gently closes the book
[Avrubai] I suppose your people tell it differently.
[Alai] We are poor writers, so this is what I am left with.
[Alai] and victors rarely keep the losers accounts
[Alai] You seeking shade as well?
[Avrubai] You might say that, in a way ... I have an interest in shadow and darkness.
[Avrubai] We haven't really talked since last time.
[Alai] Is best you mended first.
* Alai gives a sly smile
[Avrubai] I admit my defeat was not my most glorious moment.
[Avrubai] But it had a side benefit, which is that I learned not to cross Alai of the Vegru.
[Alai] You caught me angry and frustrated. I was unrestrained, wild. Is not becoming of a duel.
[Avrubai] I think it was more than that. You know it was more than that.
[Alai] Maybe so... are you seeking some sort of recompance. I suppose it would be warnted.
[Alai] (waranted)
[Avrubai] I want to know by what power it was that I was defeated. Just to understand.
[Alai] I see.
[Avrubai] Is it something that can be learned?
* Alai sets her book down on the bench and stands up, stepping closer to Avrubai
[Alai] I could tell you. Maybe you could... learn it... not necessarily the correct term. It is very personal. Should I trust you?
[Avrubai] If I tell you yes, why would you believe me?
* Alai will idly run her hand along his chest, finger tracing a pattern.
[Avrubai] I can speak as many words of trust as you like. None of them mean anything, if I am a liar.
[Alai] Very true... are we at an impass? Possibly?
[Alai] what do you want right now?
* Avrubai reaches down and holds your hand.
[Avrubai] I am outmatched, Alai. I realize that. But I am not hopeless.
[Avrubai] I have ... I have sources of support. I want to help you.
[Alai] If I thought you were hopeless, I wouldn't be talking to you. Since you bring it up, how do you want to help me? What sources?
[Avrubai] I just think, you could be a force in this world, if you wanted to be. And I could help you get there. I know I will never be as skilled as you are.
* Avrubai comes in just half a step closer, if you will let him.
* Alai does not move
[Avrubai] I have allies and friends, in Ardukh, and elsewhere.
[Alai] And you would use them to aid me... lend support to I can progress politically, I take it.
[Alai] (so not to)
[Avrubai] I could, yes.
[Avrubai] If you would have me.
[Alai] I can see the use of your support, I am not blind to perceptions of others of me.
* Alai gently slips her hand out of his and turns around.
[Avrubai] Then perhaps we can help one another?
[Alai] I'm sure we CAN help each other yes. The help you are offering right now, is little use, at this time dealing, with my current challenge.
[Alai] I will keep it in mind.
[Avrubai] All right.
* Avrubai tries to not sound too frustrated.
[Alai] Is this what you want right now?
* Alai says looking over her shoulder
[Avrubai] Right now I was thinking, maybe we could go somewhere private?
* Alai looks around... how private is thier current local?
[NemnostiGM] (not very - it's shaded but anyone coming into the courtyard or around the back of the ulajeta would be able to see you)
[Alai] I don't see anyone stopping you from dragging me away?
* Avrubai takes your hand again.
* Alai looks at him
[Avrubai] I don't think you're the type to be dragged.
* Avrubai leans in to kiss you.
* Alai steps around his kiss, breaking his grip and starts to walk away
[Avrubai] I am in your power, Alai.
[Alai] I'm going to my room, as sweltering as it is. I'll be there for an hour or so.
* Avrubai nods slowly, in realization.
[Alai] Do with that what you want
* Alai keeps walking
[Avrubai] I will.
[Alai] and bring the book
* Alai vaguely guestures behind her
* Avrubai watches you walk away, and then, once you've reached a socially appropriate distance, follows along, book in hand.
Rubo tells Kuspir about a group of visitors in the village of Hertu; he travels there with Ifa to discover the Rumnoska clan, led by their hengi Rondal, has set up an encampment
[NemnostiGM] Kuspir, things have been settled around here. Rugu hasn't had any more bright ideas, and Irdomila appears to be on her best behavior awaiting your agreement for her to pursue mystical training.
[NemnostiGM] As for the work, you've never been afraid of monotony - you know that is just another word for vigilance.
[NemnostiGM] This morning, you're up early at the West Gate on guard, when you see a very large, lumbering figure coming towards you along the road at some pace.
[NemnostiGM] After a moment you recognize the giant form of Rubo Keronaf.
* Avrubai is now known as Rubo
* Kuspir waits for him to approach
* Rubo has clearly just run from wherever he has been, but doesn't seem overly tired, just glistening.
[Rubo] Kuspir! Good, you're here.
[Kuspir] Good morning.
[Rubo] Of course you're here, what am I saying, I set the schedule.
[Rubo] We have a situation in Hertu.
[Kuspir] What's happening?
[Rubo] Last night, a big group of newcomers arrived in a caravan. Fifty, sixty, maybe more.
[Rubo] Just set up near the village.
[Kuspir] Newcomers? From where?
[Rubo] Well, that's the thing. Not quite sure, but the villagers say their ifti-name is Rumnoska.
[Rubo] Which is why I thought I would come and get you.
[Kuspir] Ah... hm. Should I go see what is happening? Would it make sense to take a group?
[Rubo] A group, I think.
[Kuspir] All right.
* Kuspir will go find Ifa, and then find a few other Stoneguards, whoever is around I guess?
[NemnostiGM] You can gather up a group of soldiers, Ifa can bring some bubun, and all together it's not hard to get a substantial group together within an hour, without leaving the ulajeta undefended or anything like that.
[Ifa] (Is this something we need to arm up for, then?)
[Ifa] (For appearances sake if nothing else?)
[NemnostiGM] (presumably the stoneguards will be armed, you can do as you like)
* Ifa will just dress in Hand clothes, then.
[NemnostiGM] All right, the group is assembled quickly and you set off.
[NemnostiGM] Rubo leads you down the road on the short trip to Hertu. As you head east and see the village rising ahead of you, off to the south - your right - you see assembled a set of six great wooden carriages. The heavy horses carrying them have been set to graze in the commons west of Hertu.
[NemnostiGM] Bustling around the little caravan are what seem like dozens of folk scurrying about and setting up what certainly looks to be some sort of permanent camp. By the look of their clothes, you'd guess they're from rural Omba - definitely not Khutuan or local.
[Ifa] (I take it this is an unusual affair?)
* Kuspir will try to get a sense of the mood - do people seem upset, agitated, or are they pretty calm and just doing their daily tasks, or what?
[NemnostiGM] (very unusual for such a large group to come, and specifically for them to come to Hertu, which is a tiny village along the road.)
[Ifa] (Does anyone look in charge?)
[NemnostiGM] (honestly it would make more sense if they showed up in Nemnosti - at least then they could be pilgrims or something)
[NemnostiGM] (it's a little hard to say - there's a lot of activity going on. One of the carriages does seem to be better-apportioned than the others.)
* Ifa will draw Kuspir's attention to that and give him a questioning look.
* Kuspir nods
[Kuspir] Let's go see if we can talk to someone in charge.
* Ifa nods and heads in that direction.
* Kuspir will accompany her.
[NemnostiGM] There's a young woman, perhaps early twenties, standing outside the long, heavy carriage. She frowns at you as you come close.
* Rubo is now known as Woman
* Kuspir will suggest the other stoneguards maybe go talk to Tuvus, also
[Kuspir] Good morning, travelers. What brings you to this village?
[Woman] Who are you to ask?
[Ifa] We're from the ulajeta.
* Ifa gestures in that direction.
[NemnostiGM] Kuspir, some of the stoneguards go off to find Tuvus, led by Rubo.
[Ifa] We heard there were newcomers, thought we'd come say hello and see if you all needed anything.
[NemnostiGM] An almost impossibly deep voice from within the carriage speaks: "It's all right, Daja."
[NemnostiGM] A youngish-looking man with a thick beard, fair skin, and a great mass of hair bound into a complex topknot comes out. He smiles warmly. His robes are plain but decorated with a strange and unfamiliar fringe. The iftijasi around his neck signals that he is surely the hengi of some clan.
[Kuspir] Good morning, hengi.
* Woman is now known as Rondal
[Rondal] Good morning. I am Rondal of the Rumnoska.
[Kuspir] I am Kuspir Vabaseli, from Nemnosti. May we know your purpose here? The people here are concerned, and we don't want any problems to break out.
* Ifa tries to look friendly and reassuring, letting Kuspir play bad cop. ;)
[Rondal] Kuspir Vabaseli, you are well met. I appreciate your concern for your Lady, and for the villagers here. I assure you that we mean absolutely no harm to you or them.
[Rondal] We are travellers, far from home, and we have come to this place seeking a little rest.
[Kuspir] Are you passing through on your way to the ulajeta, or elsewhere?
[Rondal] Elsewhere.
[Kuspir] I see.
[Ifa] How long were you planning to stay? I only ask because the ulajeta has a greater capacity for visitors than Hertu.
[Ifa] So if you plan to be around for a while, we might be better suited as hosts.
[Rondal] We had heard that Nemnosti was wary of visitors, due to some difficulty. I am glad to hear that is not the case.
[Ifa] Oh? What have you heard?
* Ifa tries to sound innocently curious.
[Rondal] Not much. Just what folks said in Naftusa.
[Kuspir] Is that where you were most recently?
[Rondal] We were, briefly.
[Ifa] (Can we try to get a read on their level and possibly type of sketchiness?)
[Rondal] (you can absolutely roll SM)
[Kuspir] (I'm also curious if I can see Azolte around anywhere or if she's laying low)
[Rondal] We don't want to impose on anyone. We seek no lands or rights over chattel, save water for us and our horses, which is plentiful here.
[Ifa] !roll 1d20+10
* Lan-werk rolls for Ifa: [ 1d20+10 ] getting [ 15 ] which, after the modifier [ 10 ] totals [ 25 ].
[Kuspir] !roll 1d20+13
* Lan-werk rolls for Kuspir: [ 1d20+13 ] getting [ 15 ] which, after the modifier [ 13 ] totals [ 28 ].
[NemnostiGM] (Kuspir, you don't see her immediately, but could go look)
[Kuspir] (that was my sense motive)
[Kuspir] (I'll wait on looking, I don't want to make a big deal about it since she had said she didn't want her family to know she was here - I'm guessing this is them and that they may be looking for her)
[Ifa] (Yeah, I figured she'd be laying low if these are her people)
[Kuspir] (I guess my other question is, do I feel like these people pose a threat? are they armed, do they have a lot of people who look like they could fight, or are they mostly family groups, all ages, etc. Or do I think that their numbers in and of themselves pose a risk, e.g. like grazing their animals here could deplete the local area and harm the people who live here indirectly, or anything
[Kuspir] like that?)
[NemnostiGM] (there's definitely more he's not telling you. Kuspir, you know who he reminds you of a bit? Zurusha's cousin Sakasa. Just a vibe.)
[NemnostiGM] You don't see any signs of a militaristic / martial bent to these folks. Family groups, various ages including children. They don't have any animals other than their horses, which are less of a burden than the 50+ people, for sure.
[Rondal] If we would be welcome at Nemnosti, I will talk with my people and we will consider it. Our purpose here is our own, but I assure you we do not wish to burden you.
[Kuspir] (you mean also Ifa's cousin Sakasa? ;)
[NemnostiGM] (yes, but you rolled better so you were reminded of her)
[Kuspir] (heh, fair)
[Kuspir] There have been some recent troubles, as you mentioned, which can make people cautious, but we still welcome visitors.
* Ifa looks to Kuspir to gauge his reaction to these folks.
[Ifa] We'd be happy to trade if you have need of supplies or anything, and we have smiths and such if you have any need of repairs or the like.
* Kuspir is not trying to scare them off or be intimidating, but not extremely warm and friendly either. Just kind of trying to be calm and neutral and see what is going on.
* Ifa figures it's easier to keep an eye on them if we deal with them, so she's trying to make heading to the ulajeta seem the most logical course.
[Rondal] That is very generous of you.
[Rondal] If we choose, are we permitted to stay here?
[Kuspir] That isn't our decision. The local folks would have to agree.
[Rondal] ( https://rocksfall.org/wiki/File:Rondal.JPG for those who are interested)
* Rondal nods.
[Ifa] Have you spoken to them yet?
[Rondal] We only arrived last night, and fairly late at that.
* Ifa nods.
[Ifa] We'd be happy to introduce you, if you like.
[Rondal] No need. We're itinerant folk, and we're used to making new friends and allies.
[Kuspir] If you prefer.
[Ifa] Well, I look forward to being counted among them. :)
[Rondal] Very well, although you have not introduced yourself, Hand.
[Ifa] Oh, I'm Ifa Nemni, by the way. I think I forgot to introduce myself. Feel free to ask for me if you need anything at the ulajeta.
[Ifa] (heh)
* Ifa looks to Kuspir, if he has anything else.
[Rondal] Well, it is a pleasure to meet you both.
[Kuspir] Good day to you, hengi, I'm sure we will speak again soon.
* Kuspir will nod politely by way of farewell and go to look for Tuvus I guess.
* Ifa follows suit.
[Ifa] (q) Not suspicious at all, huh? ].]
[Kuspir] [q] Mm, there's more to this than what he is willing to say.
[NemnostiGM] Ifa and Kuspir, definitely the geography of this group's travels are confusing, if nothing else. Why go up to a tiny little village in the hills, beyond which the only thing is Nemnosti and then the uplands?
[NemnostiGM] There literally is nowhere to go with their horses and carriages except to Nemnosti, or back downriver.
* Ifa nods.
[Ifa] (q) This *has* to have something to do their kinswoman, right?
[Kuspir] I'd guess so, but what exactly, I'm not sure.
[Ifa] Yeah.
[Ifa] One more thing to keep an eye on, eh?
* Ifa smiles.
[NemnostiGM] (all right, so you're going to find Tuvus?)
* Kuspir nods
Ifa and Kuspir go to talk to Tuvus about the arrival of the Rumnoska lineage and the whereabouts of Azolte
* Tuvus isn't hard to find, it's a small village. But unsurprisingly he's already up and has gathered around him a motley group of older folks who you can only presume are the Keronaf elders.
[Kuspir] Good morning, I see you're already aware of the situation.
[Ifa] Good morning everyone. :)
[Tuvus] Good morning! I am, as always, impressed at Rubo's industry. You know he wasn't even here in the village? Up with his wife in Akapa Sogo, we sent someone up to get him, he came here, then to get you, and back, all since being awakened a couple hours ago. Good man.
[Tuvus] But I'm not unhappy to see you folks also.
[Kuspir] How do you want to handle this? We tried encouraging them to come on to Nemnosti but they seem more inclined to stay here. We could be more forceful if you want us to be, but they don't seem aggressive, so we would be escalating the situation if we did so.
[Tuvus] Well, that's what we're discussing.
[Tuvus] Keronafs, we believe in open arms, a broad larynx and a big brain.
[Tuvus] But we are not fools and we don't like being made to look the fool.
[Kuspir] Let us know what sort of help you would like from us, if anything.
[Tuvus] One Rumnoska comes, we don't ask too many questions. We take her in, welcome her, feed her.
[Tuvus] Fifty, and who knows how many more, come up here, my spleen gets itchy.
[Ifa] Do you know where Azolte is now?
[Tuvus] That's the thing. She's with them.
[Ifa] Oh, I didn't see her.
[Ifa] But I suppose it was a sizeable camp.
[Tuvus] I'll bet you she was in the carriage with that hengi of theirs. Did you search it?
[Kuspir] No, it seemed rude.
[Kuspir] She was very worried about her family finding her - do you think she went to them willingly?
[Tuvus] Well, that's the very thing we've been discussing. Whether that whole claim was nothing more than a ruse.
[Ifa] She seemed genuine before, but if she's with them now of her own will...
* Tuvus frowns
[Tuvus] If they're staying, that's one set of problems. If they're here just for a short time, that is less worrying, but then, why are they here at all?
* Ifa nods.
[Kuspir] They claim they are passing through, but also that they seek to 'rest' here for a while. So I'm not certain how long they mean to stay.
[Ifa] Can we assume you'll all be keeping an eye on them?
[Tuvus] I don't know much about the Rumnoska lineage. Not one familiar to me. No reason to care, when there was just one of them. Now, well, that's different.
[Tuvus] And yes, we'll be keeping an eye on them. I already talked to Zips about it.
* Ifa looks at Kuspir.
[Kuspir] Do you want us to look into them further? Maybe find out about where they've been recently, or if anyone knows any more about them?
[Ifa] I wouldn't think we need to redeploy resources, but maybe we can make sure the scouts range out this way, just to keep tabs?
[Tuvus] Anything you could do to learn more about these folks, what they're up to, who they are. We are, as always, obliged to the Lady for her kindness.
* Kuspir nods
[Kuspir] If there is any trouble, of course we will do what we can to help. In the meantime we'll try to find out more about these Rumnoska and what they might be doing.
* Ifa nods.
[Tuvus] There's so much room, just not here. Naftusa could take a group this size so much more easily.
[Ifa] Right, which makes their being here that much more specific.
[Ifa] I would have thought it was just looking for Azolte, but this many people, and if she's already with them...what could they want?
[Kuspir] It sounds like they were just there.
[Tuvus] Well ... for now we will not interfere with them.
[Tuvus] But I can't promise the same for all the other lineages.
[Tuvus] The Teresu and the Gorga have been at each other's throats for decades.
[Ifa] Can you spread the word? 'Don't interfere, but keep watch'?
[Tuvus] Something disruptive like this, it could be a mess.
[Ifa] (What would we know about them and the most like reaction to newcomers?)
[NemnostiGM] (It's hard to say, but little villages like this have lots of weird historical grudges and nonsense, that is kept in check only through inertia)
[Ifa] (*nod*)
[Ifa] Maybe an outside threat can mend some fences?
[Tuvus] I'll do what I can to keep the peace here, Hand Ifa.
[Ifa] We appreciate all your effort and understanding.
[Tuvus] But you know, part of us being outsiders ourselves, is that we don't have much influence over the older clans.
* Kuspir nods
[Kuspir] If you do need further help, you know where to find us.
[Tuvus] I do.
* Ifa nods.
* Kuspir will walk back to Nemnosti with Ifa (and I guess the other stoneguards unless they're otherwise occupied?)
[Kuspir] What do you think of this?
* Kuspir asks her
[Ifa] I don't know. I thought Azolte was afraid of her family, but now...
[Ifa] It's definitely weird.
* Kuspir nods
[Kuspir] I agree.
[Ifa] Like we need another thing to worry about.
[Kuspir] You know who that Rondal reminded me of? Your cousin Sakasa. I don't know why exactly.
[Ifa] I can't imagine what would take all of them up here. Honestly, even if they were just here for Azolte.
[Ifa] Oh? I can kind of see that. Obviously they're travelers.
[Kuspir] I wonder if she has ever run into them before.
[Ifa] (Do we know where Sakasa is right now?)
[NemnostiGM] (You think she's back at Nemnosti right now)
[Ifa] I'll be sure to ask her when we get back.
[Ifa] It's just a lot to keep an eye on. You're not being spread too thin, are you?
[Ifa] You and the other guards, I mean.
[Kuspir] We'll manage.
* Ifa smiles and will bump her shoulder into Kuspir's arm affectionately.
* Kuspir smiles
[Ifa] I know, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't speak up if you need help or a break or whatever.
[Ifa] It's been one thing after another for a while now.
[Kuspir] I will be sure and do so, of course.
[Kuspir] And here I was just thinking it has been quiet lately.
[Ifa] I guess it's relative, huh?
* Kuspir nods
[Kuspir] What about asking Dadim, if they were in Naftusa most recently, maybe he has heard about them?
* Kuspir tries to think of other people who might know something about these strangers.
* Ifa nods.
[Ifa] (Josh is doing the same :P )
[Kuspir] Maybe Izu can look in books and see if there is anything written, but it would be older I suppose.
[Ifa] Any bit of information could help. He might even ask the Lady or one of the Ancestors about them, if we have any who might at least know the lineage.
* Ifa sighs.
* Kuspir nods
[Ifa] I'd rather be happy with new visitors, but with everything that's been going on...
* Ifa shrugs.
[Kuspir] If there weren't such strange things about their 'visit', it would be easier to welcome them wholeheartedly, but unfortunately we have to be cautious.
[Ifa] Like we told Tuvus, keep watch.
[Ifa] Until feet fail, right? ;)
[Kuspir] Exactly. Until feet fail.
[NemnostiGM] Until next we gather by the firelight, young acolytes ...
Solos
Jevai develops a plan with Giri Hazh to place a powerful seal on the Lanky Stones
* Jevai will try and catch her ostesnsible Upward in his mess of an office
* NemnostiGM is now known as Giri
* Giri is there, reading from an old sheaf of papers.
* Giri looks up as he sees you.
[Giri] Oh, hello, Pebble.
[Jevai] hello Upward - do you have some time for me?
[Giri] Yes, of course, well ... ahh, yes.
* Jevai smiles and will clear herself a place to sit
[Jevai] thank you
[Giri] Has something else happened?
[Jevai] no - only that Downward will not be changing the stones's password
[Giri] Yes, I had heard as much.
* Jevai nods
[Giri] I suppose that is probably for the best?
[Jevai] Yes, I think so
[Jevai] I wanted to see if you had any ideas on what else we might to to protect it, and the ulajeta?
[Jevai] (might do to)
[Giri] Other than putting stoneguards out there all day, you mean?
[Jevai] yes
[Jevai] I'm sure they didn't expect their title to be so literal
[Giri] No, I suppose not. But I don't imagine they are complaining. That is not their nature.
* Jevai nods
* Jevai give shim another moment to see if he has had any thoughts on this matter
[Giri] Has the Lady spoken to you about any plans She might have?
[Jevai] No, but I am sure she would appreciate our insights
* Giri sighs.
[Jevai] If we were to come to her with suggestions, she could determine whther it woudl align with her other plans
[Giri] I am very busy with various research projects ... but I suppose I am not averse to talking about it.
[Giri] Are you thinking of mundane solutions? Or something involving Source?
[Jevai] I am thinking of solutions involving glyphs
[Jevai] well... Seals
[Giri] Mmm... it feels almost a violation, to manipulate the Lanky Stones that way. It's not, not really, but it just feels off.
[Jevai] Ideally, it will only be for the short term
[Giri] Of course.
[Giri] You are thinking of some sort of contingent seal?
[Jevai] But it should be possible, shouldn't it? To set a seal contingent on someone passing though the stone?
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] yes, exactly
* Giri nods.
[Giri] I think that could be a useful solution. Perhaps in addition to the guards - given that no solution is foolproof.
[Giri] What would you want it to do?
[Jevai] I have been considering that - I thnk that it would be best to use spells that will traps or stop the target, and allow the stoneguards to deal with them
[Jevai] that way, it could still be used
* Kennesaw (uid133455id-133455.uxbridge.irccloud.com) Quit (Quit: Connection closed for inactivity )
[Giri] It is possible to set a rather complex condition, if we formulate it properly. But I agree, entrapment rather than, say, outright murder. I have little bloodlust, I suppose.
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] I am willing to help how I can with this - however Im not advanced enough in the craft to empowel a contingent seal
[Giri] I have the skill, that is not the issue.
* Jevai smiles
[Jevai] I know
[Jevai] I was thinkng something like Hold Monmster, though that might not be powerful enough?
[Jevai] or temporal Statis...
[Jevai] I suppose we can do more than one, hmm?
[Giri] Temporal Stasis ... a bold choice.
[Giri] Inspired, one might even say, by the Lady.
[Giri] From Anchors, Eddies, and Lodestones, chapter 39,
* Jevai smiles
[Jevai] As you say, Upward
[Jevai] Should we put tohgether a list for the lady, then?
[Giri] Hold Monster is more easily subverted
[Giri] I am thinking that this individual, whoever they actually are, is extremely powerful. We need equally powerful tools.
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] I agree.
[Jevai] however I do think that a multipronged approach will be best
[Giri] What contingency would you select? Presumably that anyone entering using the Megalithic Door without, perhaps, speaking some word. That creates a second password, one known only to the few select.
[Jevai] That seems like a good one
[Jevai] it would mean is someone did use the door legitimaetely, the seals wouldn't need to be recast.
[Giri] Right.
[Giri] You think two seals, though? That is very industrious of you.
[Jevai] I do.
[Giri] I don't object to Hold Monster. In fact, it might be near the limit of what I can do.
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] I think that is a good secondary spell
[Jevai] and they effect the target differently - hopefully they woudln;t succeeed both spells
[Giri] That is true, certainly.
[Jevai] can seals be altered wth metamagical effects?
[Giri] They can be, yes, certainly.
[Giri] Although doing so obviously raises the difficulty of the lodging.
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] can they be added as an ancillary flourish?
[Giri] They could be, I suppose. I've never done so, but in principle I don't think there's any reason one couldn't.
[Jevai] perhaps that woudl be a way to augment them
[Jevai] I could assist with that
[Giri] Do you have a suggestion for an augmentation?
[Jevai] To make it them Persistent
[Giri] Ah! That is a good one. Widdershins must have taught you that one.
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] it coudl be heightened as well, but I think Persistent will be better for our goal
[Giri] Well, perhaps she will come to regret having taught it to you, then!
* Jevai smiles at that, amused
[Jevai] Perhaps!
[Giri] Well, this all sounds like an excellent idea.
[Jevai] we should make a meeting to bring it to the Lady, then
* Giri nods.
[Giri] I am busy,but not so busy that I can't make time for this.
[Jevai] Thank you, Upward
Jevai talks to Kuspir about the plan to seal the Lanky Stones, and to Irdomila about her interest in magical training
* Jevai will come find Kuspir
* Kuspir can be... at his house?
* Jevai will knock, then?
[Jevai] (or wherver we do to signal a visiror ;p)
* Kuspir opens the door
[Kuspir] Ah, Jevai, good day. I was just making dinner.
[Jevai] oh, sorry to bother you, I can come back later if that's better
[Kuspir] No, it's no problem.
[Kuspir] There is enough for others, if you want to join me.
[Jevai] oh, thank you.
* Jevai says, a bit surprised
[Jevai] Are the kids here?
* Giri is now known as Irdomila
* Irdomila pokes her head in.
[Irdomila] Jevai!
* Irdomila smiles broadly
[Kuspir] As you may see, Irdomila is here this evening. Rugu is with his grandparents.
[Jevai] hello :)
[Irdomila] Did Dad tell you, this month is when I am going to start learning magic?
[Jevai] I just came to bother your father about some work thing, but now apparenlty I'm staying for dinner, so you can tell me about how you are finding your acolyte training
[Jevai] very nice!
[Jevai] What style are you planning to try?
[Irdomila] Well, it's good. I mean. Some of the people are stupid. But Amasa has the best stories.
* Kuspir will go finish up making food while you chat, which is just a goat stew with herbs and dumplings.
[Irdomila] I don't know. I mean ... I don't know that that's up to me totally.
[Jevai] but using fos to access the source?
[Irdomila] Well, I think that is the way everyone starts as an acolyte, right?
[Irdomila] I don't think I can just ask to be a sigillant ... can I?
[Jevai] depends who you ask, i suppose
[Irdomila] Grandmother thinks I would make a good herbalist.
[Jevai] I had already started my training before i became an acolyte
* Irdomila nods.
[Jevai] and I'm sure you would, she would be delighted
[Jevai] but there aren't many others here who could help you I think, not as well as her
* Kuspir returns with the food and will pass it out to Jevai and Irdomila.
[Jevai] Thank you
[Kuspir] You are welcome, of course.
* Kuspir is not a bad cook
[Jevai] Thank you, this is tasty - and good to have something a little different, too
[Kuspir] If I was not a Stoneguard, maybe I would have enjoyed being a cook.
* Irdomila digs in, eager to sit in on what seems like an adult conversation.
* Kuspir says pensively
[Irdomila] Remember the time you burned the loza berries, though.
* Kuspir smiles, sighing slightly.
[Kuspir] You were probably only Rugu's age, but yes, I remember it well.
[Jevai] Failure is one way learn
* Kuspir nods
[Kuspir] But, what did bring you here in the first place? I trust it isn't urgent or you would have said something about it already.
[Jevai] no, not urgent, it's about the Lanky stones security
[Kuspir] Ah, what about it? We are continuing to have guards posted there, of course.
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] yes, I convinced Upward that there are other things we can do as well, which will hopefully remove a little stress form the stoneguards
[Jevai] I wouldn;t say we don;t still need the guard, but they won;t be our first line of defense
[Kuspir] That would be good. Magical defenses of some kind?
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] Should I go into further detail?
* Jevai asks without quite lookignat Irdomila
[Kuspir] If you think it would be prudent, certainly. I will not really understand the finer details of your workings, but the expected results might be good to know.
[Irdomila] Maybe something that shocks Fultukhari if he does it again, huh?
[Jevai] No, it will only effect someone unauthorized who is rravelling through the stone
* Irdomila nods.
[Jevai] but you don't have to tell him that ;)
* Irdomila giggles.
[Irdomila] He's fine, just an idiot.
[Jevai] anyone who tries to come through the stone will face two spells
[Jevai] one that is quite powerful, and a lesser one as a backup
* Kuspir nods
[Kuspir] If such a thing happens, what should the guards do?
[Jevai] if the first spell is successful, they won;t need to do anythig - the person will essentially be stopped in time, and will be frozen that way until the spell is ended by an external power, hopefull ourselves ;)
[Jevai] in the second case, they will be paralyzed, but only temporarily
[Kuspir] I see.
[Kuspir] Would there be risk to the guards in approaching? Should they go and summon you if this happens?
[Jevai] theee will be no risk to the guards, the spell will only target whoever uses the stone
[Jevai] and notably - it will only target the first person, so if someone else follows they will not be affected. but they might be i the way ;)
* Kuspir nods
[Kuspir] It sounds like a good defense, then.
[Jevai] I would say they should still follow the normal protocols, especially as they may not work, for various reasons.
[Jevai] if themore pwerful spell taks hold, they will be in complete stasis, not even breathing.
* Irdomila is sitting quietly ,as if afraid that if anyone notices her she'll miss out on this
[Jevai] in the second, it is a more basic paralysis, so they will still appear to be alive - breathing, hearth beat, and so on. and they may still be able to resist the spell
* Kuspir nods
* Jevai turns to her
[Jevai] I know it won't matter to your father, but do you have any guesses as to what the spells mighht be?
[Irdomila] I guess ... a holding spell? Hold person?
* Jevai nods
[Irdomila] I don't know though ... how can you live without breathing?
[Jevai] the second spell is a more powerful version of that
[Jevai] The first spell is even pore potent. It's called Temporal Stasis
[Irdomila] Wow.
[Jevai] it, hmm, freezes you in time
[Irdomila] Holy fuck.
[Kuspir] Language.
* Kuspir says mildly.
* Jevai grins though
[Jevai] its not the most powerful we coudl have chosen, but we wanted somethig that could be fairly easily reversed if we wanted.
[Kuspir] Thank you for undertaking this. I'll inform the guards to let them know that this will be a possible situation they might need to deal with. I think if it does happen, it sounds like the best practice would be for them to assume an incursion is happening and respond defensively, as if others might follow the first person, while also summoning for help from you or another magic-user if you
[Kuspir] aren't available.
[Jevai] yes. Any magic user should be able too help, and there are lenty around.
[Jevai] I can prepare a more thorough report that you can issues as a briefing if you like
* Jevai glances at Irdomila again
[Jevai] But it is proabbkly best that we don't spread the details toomcuh, hmm?
* Kuspir nods
[Jevai] we want to make sure it stays a nasty surprise.
[Irdomila] Auntie Jevai, don't worry. I would not do anything that would risk people trusting me to train in Source.
[Irdomila] Rugu, though ...
* Irdomila rolls her eyes.
[Kuspir] Your brother is still young, he doesn't always know what is prudent.
[Jevai] well, Rugu's not here, is he?
* Irdomila smiles.
[Irdomila] Nope.
[Jevai] well, there we go.
[Kuspir] But I know that you are old enough to know better.
* Kuspir says with a Look at his daughter.
[Irdomila] Definitely.
