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Revanchism | VII [62]

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  1. [1:02:38 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> |||+++--- Chapter VII ---+++|||
  2. [1:12:36 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [The sunrise pours through the guest room windows, rousing you from your slumber. You hear the patter of quick feet outside as you awake, quickly diminishing as they move away. Your upstairs vantage point grants you a decent view to the east, down the hill and the various buildings of the City down to the blue ocean in the distance, glittering in the sunlight.]
  3. [1:15:29 PM CDT] * [110]_Hanne stumbles out of bed lazily; rubbing her eyes and yawning loudly. Stretching her arms, she gets dressed and gathers her few belongings before heading towards the door.
  4. [1:15:57 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow keeps her eyes on the ocean for a number of minutes, then turns them into the room, descending to the first floor.
  5. [1:20:34 PM CDT] * [110]_Hanne exits the room. Spotting Meadow as she walks down to the first floor, Hanne saunters after her; still yawning tiredly.
  6. [1:23:12 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow looks back at Hanne for a moment, then into the room. She takes a deep breath, then asks,
  7. [1:23:21 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Do you have any plans for the day?
  8. [1:24:23 PM CDT] * [110]_Hanne looks at Meadow quizzically. She blinks then rubs her eyes.
  9. [1:24:46 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> Wha-? We're talking to Sindr today ain't we? You still sleeping?
  10. [1:25:42 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Do you think that will take all the time we have here while we visit? I was hoping at least that my request to see Echo would be approved, and I'd have the chance to ask her one or two things about my magic.
  11. [1:26:45 PM CDT] * [110]_Hanne shrugs.
  12. [1:27:09 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> Depends on how Sindr feels. And how convincing you think you are, I suppose.
  13. [1:29:09 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I have my moments, but we'll see how things turn out. As ever we do. Do you think she's ready to talk to us? Or will we simply not give her the choice?
  14. [1:29:34 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> We don't have one, our permits expire in a day.
  15. [1:29:45 PM CDT] * [110]_Hanne raises an eyebrow.
  16. [1:29:55 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> No sense prolonging the inevitable, then. Let's be on our way.
  17. [1:30:37 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> Her permit as well. You on the other hand have some weird magic stuff to do so you get to stay longer. Or something.
  18. [1:31:31 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> All the more reason, then. Let's be going.
  19. [1:32:13 PM CDT] * [110]_Hanne heads towards the main rooms.
  20. [1:32:57 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow keeps pace.
  21. [1:36:19 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [The two of you encounter Asta at the bottom of the stairs. She stands attentive until you arrive at the bottom few steps to bid you a good morning. At that time, Risal returns from the direction of the front door, carrying a mixed expression.]
  22. [1:36:48 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> Mornin' folks.
  23. [1:38:31 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow nods to Asta as they arrive at the base of the steps. She looks at Risal for a moment, and then a moment longer, before returning her gaze to Asta.
  24. [1:38:34 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Good morning.
  25. [1:39:53 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Risal puts on a smile.]
  26. [1:40:12 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: Good morning, I trust that your rest was good?
  27. [1:41:00 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Yes, thank you. Your hospitality, as ever, leaves nothing to be desired.
  28. [1:46:03 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I hope...that you've been able to profit from some rest, as well.
  29. [1:46:26 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: It's been a long time since we've hosted anyone, I'm happy that our skills haven't slipped. Please, breakfast is ready for you, we can speak there.
  30. [1:46:52 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Asta leads the way back to the sitting room from the night before.]
  31. [1:47:01 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> /me nods again, a smile cracking on her face
  32. [1:47:24 PM CDT] * [110]_Hanne smiles at Risal before following Asta to the room.
  33. [1:48:09 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow nods again, a smile cracking her face. She's led into the sitting room, and finds an appropriate place for herself.
  34. [1:52:12 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [At the table, Asta indicates two seats for the visitors then goes to retrieve the bread and soup from the kitchen. Risal takes a seat directly across from the two of you.]
  35. [1:54:14 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: Seeing Sindr again was all I had wished for, but this morning I wish the news that came with her wasn't so sudden.
  36. [1:54:35 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> How is she?
  37. [1:54:43 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Her smile weakens and she casts her gaze to the ceiling.]
  38. [1:56:05 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: She seemed a lot happier than when she had left, she carries herself with a sort of dignity now.
  39. [1:58:23 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> Good to hear. Will she be joining us for breakfast?
  40. [1:58:27 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> !roll 1d12 + 5 + 1d8 + 2 + 4 [CHA WLL] Interacting socially
  41. [1:58:27 PM CDT] <FeistyKaka> [Multi]_Meadow rolled: {8}=> 8 + 5 + {6}=> 6 + 2 + 4 = 25 "[CHA WLL] Interacting socially"
  42. [1:59:42 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: She's run off with Iris already. She wanted to show Sindr the neighbourhood and her friends.
  43. [2:00:41 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Asta sets out breakfast for each person seated.]
  44. [2:01:06 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Thank you, Asta, this looks lovely.
  45. [2:01:30 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I'm sure Iris must have been thrilled at the surprise upon waking today.
  46. [2:01:44 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> Ha! I see. Any idea when they'll return? I'm glad she has some time to relax this way, but we do have important matters to discuss.
  47. [2:05:24 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: I expected that the little one would not sleep again after waking to see Sindr last night, but she did and woke up just about the fastest I've ever seen her. Sindr woke up first, however, and we had a small chat before the two of them hurried to go out. They should return before noon, Iris has lessons after.
  48. [2:05:39 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Asta returns with her own set and takes her seat at the head of the table.]
  49. [2:06:29 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> That should leave us with enough time, I think. Our permits don't expire until the end of today.
  50. [2:08:35 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> And I can say for my part that, business, aside, it's been good to have another look at the place after so long. Even though much has changed, there's still enough familiarity about the place to tickle that itch in the brain.
  51. [2:12:17 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: Since we have the time, we don't need to rush. Please, eat before the soups get cold.
  52. [2:14:15 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Thank you, I wouldn't want to let the warmth of your kitchen go to waste!
  53. [2:16:02 PM CDT] * [110]_Hanne begins to tuck into her food.
  54. [2:16:05 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow begins to eat, occasionally sopping the soup with her bread partway through her course, she pauses after swallowing to ask,
  55. [2:16:07 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> But you know, Risal, we've been without news for a long time, as well—tell me, how have you been?
  56. [2:25:10 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: Somewhat aimless, to tell the truth. Not being a servant to someone opens up a lot of time you don't really notice having. Keeping tabs on the progress of our younger ones has been interesting enough, but the days go quite slowly.
  57. [2:26:36 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> You've been in the profession for a long time, haven't you? I remember your saying you were born into it.
  58. [2:29:17 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: Yes, in some ways it's like saying one has been eating or sleeping for a long time, though; I didn't have a choice in it, and it's the same with many in this house. Quite a change in life, isn't it?
  59. [2:29:33 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow laughs softly.
  60. [2:30:14 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Yes, quite jarring, indeed. With time, though, one becomes accustommed to the change.
  61. [2:33:32 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: I believe Asta had already spoken of how many of us are still in a sort of limbo when it comes to professions here? It doesn't feel like this current change is complete.
  62. [2:34:52 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Ah, yes, that's true. The State tends to be good about this sort of thing, though, and even if it takes them a moment to find something that matches your abilities, I think you can look forward to whatever they deem most appropriate for you. How long has it been, again?
  63. [2:38:59 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: It will be a year soon, I think. The change in calendar makes time feel different too. I'm working on making clothes, maybe with practice that will become something I can make a profession.
  64. [2:39:39 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> Not a bad trade.
  65. [2:40:13 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> You have experience at it, too, don't you, Hanne?
  66. [2:41:02 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> Enough to maintain my own garments.
  67. [2:46:02 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Maybe you and Risal will be able to work together, some distant day once you've retired from soldiering.
  68. [2:50:14 PM CDT] * [110]_Hanne laughs and continues to eat.
  69. [2:52:13 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow falls silent for another moment, as well, finishing her meal.
  70. [2:55:25 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [The other residents of the house pass through your table on the way to the kitchen, politely greeting the guests along the way. They take their meals with them out of the house on whatever business they have today, even if it's just to tend to the garden.]
  71. [2:57:26 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow looks to guage the time of day by the sun out the window once both she and Risal have eaten the last of their food.
  72. [2:58:50 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Turning to look out the window, the sun is clear of the horizon now but still firmly in the realm of early morning. Asta begins clearing the table as each person finishes their meal.]
  73. [3:00:09 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow turns back to Risal.
  74. [3:00:46 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Um—Risal, I hope it wouldn't be too large a burden for me to ask for some time alone with you while we wait for Sindr and Iris to return?
  75. [3:03:00 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: Certainly not, if what Iris told me she'd do is correct, she will use all the time up to her lessons. But I have something I'd like to discuss first.
  76. [3:04:00 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Oh?
  77. [3:04:17 PM CDT] * [110]_Hanne turns her attention to Risal.
  78. [3:04:21 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [As the activity in the house dies down, Risal turns her gaze to the two of you. It's clear that this topic has been centre on her mind for the whole morning.]
  79. [3:04:44 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: Sindr told me she had intended to kill Zarine, that was what she came back to do.
  80. [3:04:51 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow returns her hands to her lap; they grip each other tightly.
  81. [3:05:57 PM CDT] * [110]_Hanne continues to watch Risal expressionlessly.
  82. [3:07:05 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow nods, her head barely moving. Her voice is very soft:
  83. [3:07:11 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I'm not surprised to hear that.
  84. [3:07:40 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: She must have told you the same, didn't she?
  85. [3:08:30 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> She was asking questions along those lines. She's been very worried about you.
  86. [3:09:06 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: Yes, about the curse, as she calls it. What do you think?
  87. [3:09:48 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow 's voice grows with some confidence as she continues:
  88. [3:10:29 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I think she won't be able to get to her. She's in the custody of the State, isn't she? She won't be able to contravene their sentencing.
  89. [3:52:30 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: As much as most of us doesn't want to think this way, the fact that Zarine is gone means she's practically dead to us. But Sindr's conviction to kill her still unsettles me. Do you think she is correct? That there's some curse going on?
  90. [3:55:17 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> ...Have you asked anyone about this yet?
  91. [4:00:11 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: I learnt of it this morning, nobody else has ever been aware of anything of the sort.
  92. [4:01:49 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> River told us that her influence remains in you, but is no longer advancing, now that she's been removed. Were she...and the god twined together with her to cease to exist, that influence would ebb to nothing.
  93. [4:02:48 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: So you believe it as well?
  94. [4:03:33 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow spends a moment looking at Risal. She tucks her lips into her mouth breifly, then says,
  95. [4:04:07 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I've seen no evidence of it, myself. But yes, I trust River to be telling the truth in this regard. And Sindr said she could see the changes.
  96. [4:11:18 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> State'll handle it. Should be alright.
  97. [4:13:48 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: Then she won't have to do it herself.
  98. [4:14:05 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Risal's statement seems to be as much to herself as to you.]
  99. [4:16:21 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> No, she won't.
  100. [4:18:52 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: She spoke with such conviction and determination. I hadn't seen that from her before. Like she was sure she would save us.
  101. [4:20:02 PM CDT] * [110]_Hanne turns her gaze to the side; a proud smirk on her face.
  102. [4:20:20 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> She's saved us. She must simply believe that she's ready now to do the same for her family.
  103. [4:22:53 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Risal puts her forehead in hand and sighs.]
  104. [4:24:18 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow lets go of her hands, letting them relax on her thighs.
  105. [4:30:48 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> ...You don't mourn the loss of your liege?
  106. [4:44:29 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: We can't spend our whole lives mourning. I'm sure we'll deal with these feelings eventually, in our own ways.
  107. [4:45:31 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Indeed, indeed.
  108. [4:46:57 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: And if she had brought something with her which would harm us... we would have had the ability to leave anyway.
  109. [4:48:49 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Yes, that's true. You're no longer in bondage, here.
  110. [1:19:21 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [A period of silence settles over the sitting room, only punctuated by the clinking of plates and tableware collected and washed by Asta. If Risal had thought at length of her newfound independence, it appears that she had not considered her past servitude in such terms before.]
  111. [1:24:00 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow grips one of her hands with the other.
  112. [1:25:40 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> And I imagine that, if you had made that choice, the State would find a way to separate you effectively, just as they have now.
  113. [1:29:46 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: Truly? They haven't stepped into household business so far, even when it would have been useful. Aside from Zarine's arrest, they've had very little interaction with us, and even the arrest was done without anyone noticing.
  114. [1:32:24 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow looks up at Risal.
  115. [1:32:26 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Oh. I suppose in that respect, you have more direct experience than do I; for all my time working with the State, I've spent much less living in it than you have, at this point. But it's hard for me to imagine that if you left, and she pursued you, you would have no recourse to ensure that she would no longer bother you.
  116. [1:37:59 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: You're likely correct. I'm not sure she would have made an issue of the matter if I or anyone left, she is intelligent and recognized that nobody here brings domestic troubles outside of their house; you just never see it, so to do it would probably bring the attention of the guards.
  117. [1:40:14 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> At any rate, things haven't come to that. I'm very glad to see that you're safe, and I know that you have a good future ahead of you, whichever way it may be turning.
  118. [1:42:23 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Risal sighs, exhaling her melancholy and returning to the present brighter.]
  119. [1:42:42 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: You're right. What are your plans for the rest of the day?
  120. [1:43:35 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I'm not sure what Hanne is planning—I'm hoping to speak with an old teacher of mine, though I haven't heard whether or not the application for that visit was approved.
  121. [1:45:56 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> I've got no plans; talking to Sindr was all. Figured I'd put my feet up and relax if we had the time.
  122. [1:49:55 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Risal: You are welcome to rest here if you'd like. The parks and public spaces in the neighbourhood are pleasant as well.
  123. [1:51:07 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I'd be grateful to indulge in your hospitality. It's been a long time since I've had the opportunity.
  124. [1:51:16 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> Oh? I might take a look-see then; the area has certainly changed from when I was last here.
  125. [2:17:40 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Relocating to a different part of the house, Meadow is seated in a more comfortable semi-reclined and cushioned armchair while Risal goes back and forth between cleaning up the sitting area, bringing new tea over, and chatting with Meadow. Hanne takes her leave and walks the neighbourhood, finding the old administration building and orienting herself based on it. All the wooden, ostensibly permanent buildings in the area has been
  126. [2:17:40 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> replaced by structures made from the typical State stone, though the road grid remains the same. By some design, some lots where there had been structures were made into parks, and others that were open fields or crop gardens are now occupied by homes. The ocean breeze still blows up from the shore below, still crisp before the sun's heat warms it. Flame is still outside the Ynni's house, it turns out, though whomever was with her during
  127. [2:17:40 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> the night is no longer there. As predicted by Risal, the two sisters return on time; Iris' excitement and energy speeds her through gathering the things for her upcoming lessons, and she runs out of the house with breakfast in hand. Sindr watches her go, standing awkwardly as she suddenly is left to herself.]]
  128. [2:21:17 PM CDT] * [110]_Hanne returns to the house in time to see Iris speed off. Spotting Sindr standing alone, she approaches her.
  129. [2:21:35 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> Well? How was the homecoming?
  130. [2:24:22 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Sindr: <C> Strange. Sort of nice. I'm happy that she's living happily, but it feels sort of like a dream.
  131. [2:25:04 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> Better than you expected?
  132. [2:26:49 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Sindr: I didn't know what to expect. I guess it's better than the worst things I thought.
  133. [2:27:02 PM CDT] * [110]_Hanne grins.
  134. [2:27:34 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> Sometimes good things happen. Come, lets get inside. We have some things to discuss.
  135. [2:27:50 PM CDT] * [110]_Hanne pats Sindr on the shoulder as she walks past the girl and into the house.
  136. [2:29:58 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Sindr lets herself be guided into the house.]
  137. [2:32:09 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow looks up from her seat when Sindr enters.
  138. [2:32:11 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Welcome back.
  139. [2:36:15 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Sindr nods to Meadow, still in a sort of daze. Risal had gone to clean up Iris' breakfast.]
  140. [2:37:08 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> You should see some of these parks Meadow - you of all people would enjoy them.
  141. [2:37:54 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Heavens, it has been a while since we've been around any considerable greenery, isn't it?
  142. [2:38:22 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> They are in fact, green.
  143. [2:39:40 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I was so busy visiting the opportunity practically slipped my mind—thank you for the reminder.
  144. [2:40:09 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> It looks like you've been enjoying your day, Sindr.
  145. [2:41:30 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Sindr: It's still sinking in. Feels like my body is somewhere else.
  146. [2:44:58 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow lets out a soft chuckle.
  147. [2:45:01 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> It is a bit unreal, isn't it? I've had some experience with it, but it's still strange to be swept so far across the world at once, especially when the sights you had expected turn out so different.
  148. [2:47:24 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Sindr: Yeah... so what now?
  149. [2:47:45 PM CDT] * [110]_Hanne plops down into a nearby chair.
  150. [2:48:35 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> That's what we'd like to talk about. Having come back and seen everyone with your own eyes, what do you plan now? What do you want to do?
  151. [2:51:35 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Sindr paces and fidgets.]
  152. [2:55:51 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> You can sit, y'know.
  153. [2:57:07 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Sindr: I... I don't think I could stay. Not yet, at least. Seeing my family so differently is strange. I know them, but it feels like I don't. Maybe if I had stayed, then it wouldn't be like this, but...
  154. [2:58:00 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> You're a different person now, eh?
  155. [2:58:02 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Sindr finds a stool to sit on.]
  156. [2:59:23 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Sindr: I guess? Probably. It's almost a year of difference.
  157. [3:01:30 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> Our permits to stay expire tonight. Even if you wanted to stay, you'd have to go through the process and wait outside the City for some time.
  158. [3:01:54 PM CDT] * [110]_Hanne leans back in her chair.
  159. [3:02:51 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> But it sounds like you'll be returning with us to the front.
  160. [3:04:25 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Sindr: Yeah. I just hope that they are really still them, but even without the curse, Iris was so different. She goes out on her own, has friends out there, speaks a different language.
  161. [3:06:24 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Are you satisfied that your family is safe, at least?
  162. [3:07:24 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Sindr nods.]
  163. [3:07:42 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow lets out a sigh and nods, looking at the floor.
  164. [3:08:01 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Good. That's good. I hadn't seen them before, so I couldn't be sure...
  165. [3:10:05 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Sindr: I want to spend the rest of the visit here. I have to explain it to my sisters, and maybe the others.
  166. [3:11:00 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Explain the curse?
  167. [3:11:23 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Sindr: No, leaving again.
  168. [3:11:49 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Sindr casts a long look around the room.]
  169. [3:12:26 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Sindr: I'll probably come back, sometime. Maybe when I feel like I have done enough.
  170. [3:12:34 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow returns her gaze to the floor and nods again.
  171. [3:12:41 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> That's very valiant of you.
  172. [3:12:57 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Sindr shrugs.]
  173. [3:13:22 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Sindr: It's something. Don't know if I really believe it.
  174. [3:16:02 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> The choice is yours to make.
  175. [3:18:13 PM CDT] <[110]_Hanne> The war will be long. Plenty of opportunities for achievements. And there will be more times to visit as well.
  176. [3:25:55 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Sindr nods, partly in agreement and partly in resignation. Risal returns shortly afterwards and Sindr goes to spend some time with her older sister. While meadow is out in the neighbourhood parks, a government agent informs her that her visitation request had been accepted, though she would only have the remainder of her existing visitor permit to meet with Echo.]
  177. [3:27:04 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow hops out of a tree to accept the news, and thanks the messenger for it.
  178. [3:27:11 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Is there an address that i should visit?
  179. [3:30:51 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Male Yintem: Flame will take you to the residence. Her replacement will stay with your travelling companions.
  180. [3:32:15 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Understood. Thank you.
  181. [3:33:54 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow sets off to find Flame once more.
  182. [3:45:32 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [She was waiting at the gate in front of the Ynni's house when Meadow arrives. With a mere acknowledgement she strides off, leading Meadow on a rather lengthy journey several streets downhill to a main boulevard, a sailsled journey down the wide street, and further walking through neighbourhoods that were quite similar to the one in which the Ynni live. You arrive before the front gate of a two storey house, a pair of broad canopied trees
  183. [3:45:32 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> standing in the yard, shrouding the space beneath in a pleasant gloom. Within the darkness, an Iyatem is seated on a pale oblong stone, reading a book.]
  184. [3:47:28 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow strides towards the Iyatem, stopping a couple paces in front.
  185. [3:47:46 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I've been approved to visit Echo.
  186. [3:54:26 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Meadow hadn't noticed in the distance, but her approach draws the attention of three tiny Iyatem, barely larger than Meadow's torso, who quickly scramble onto the elder one's arachnid abdomen and hide among the legs, peering out tiny veiled faces. The adult closes her book and chuckles in the humming way that Iyatem do.]
  187. [3:54:57 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: So you have. It has been a while, Meadow. How are your travels?
  188. [3:55:32 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow grins.
  189. [3:56:20 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Storied! I've been to places and seen things that I would never have had the courage to imagine. And I'm grateful to find myself in one piece here, after surviving them this far.
  190. [3:57:57 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: You haven't had your fill yet, have you?
  191. [3:59:36 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I wonder sometimes, I really do. But no, there's work yet to do, and battles yet to win. Is this your—are these your children?
  192. [4:01:08 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: They are, some of them at least. The rest are inside.
  193. [4:01:28 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Echo hums as she reaches back to pat the one closest at hand.]
  194. [4:02:37 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow looks across the small ones, still smiling.
  195. [4:02:38 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I'd heard that you'd become a mother, and it's a pleasure to have a chance to meet them.
  196. [4:05:30 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: I'm glad you are able to visit, though they hatched just last month so their consciousnesses have yet to form. Be sure to come again when they can listen and speak with understanding.
  197. [4:08:17 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I'll look forward to that opportunity, whenever it may come. Things are in wild flux right now where we are, and it's hard to say when the next window of rest will be upon us.
  198. [4:10:36 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: Well I wish for your continuing health and success. I'm sure I will be able to get River to comment on the matter as well.
  199. [4:11:58 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I know she's been dealing with responsibilities here, but she must be keeping a close watch on our doings, as well. She came when we invoked our name, and by her grace we find ourselves together.
  200. [4:21:01 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: She has certainly put herself in an awkward situation. She is officially deceased, it has been on the books for years, and her transformation during her previous expedition led to that status being invoked with slightly more vigour. Anyone who had personally worked with her in the past is supposed to speak of her as if she was truly dead, so she has no responsibilities, proper. Of course, she has her own view on the matter.
  201. [4:22:25 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [As Echo sings her words in amusement, her children return to their exploration of the yard and the tree nearest their mother.]
  202. [4:23:54 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Ha ha! I would imagine so—death certainly hasn't slaked her ambition. The entire expedition we're a part of has been facilitated by her whim.
  203. [4:23:55 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow watches the children climbing about, eyes wandering from Echo as she speaks.
  204. [4:23:57 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I've had only the briefest window to hear about the bureaucratic developments, but it seems that the way things are going, her actions may be entirely extra-legal at this point.
  205. [4:37:09 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: Indeed, her whole existence has fallen outside of the customs and laws of the State. We are privileged to have her with us still.
  206. [4:39:58 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I'm a bit concerned, I have to admit, that at some point I'll have to decide if my personal loyalty to her or to the State is greater; I know that she acts only in its best interests, as far as she can tell, but I what I hear suggests that a growing number of People disagree. But that's not the thing I was hoping most to speak about with you today.
  207. [4:47:34 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: Interesting, though as long as she holds onto her principles, I do not believe that conflict will truly come about. What else is on your mind?
  208. [4:48:48 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> The same subject that originally brought me to you: my magic. I've had much time now to grow more familiar with it, and it's behaved in ways that I've never heard of before, not in any legend of anyone Touched with the Sight.
  209. [4:54:38 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: Such is the way of magic, what is written down is only the experiences familiar to the writers. You may want to begin writing of your own experiences. What things have you experienced?
  210. [4:57:10 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> You've said in the past that my magic, like yours, is based on sight, but I have more and more reason to doubt that. When I turn my eyes inward for a vision of the future, or the past, it is more than just seeing those events; it is as though I am there in person, with the ability to reach out and change things, to touch them and move them, and to speak with the people that I see.
  211. [5:04:47 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: It may be more accurate to say that your magic was inspired by what you had known of magic, of individuals or groups who could "foresee" events. That you experience your magic in a more bodily way could be a result of your experiences affecting how your magic manifests.
  212. [5:07:59 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Is that what you believe it to be? An "experience" of my magic, and not a physical reality that I'm materially witnessing?
  213. [5:21:04 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: It may be both. As you did not live with magic during your formative years, it is possible that your magic is channelled more creatively. Your species does not have innate channels for your magic, and without schooling to guide you, you may be experiencing a natural outcome of self-study. I would expect that a realm as mysterious as time would only add to the volatility of your abilities.
  214. [5:22:47 PM CDT] * [Multi]_Meadow nods, thinking over Echo's words.
  215. [5:23:30 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Volitile, certainly. You remember when I somehow added the abilities of a magical artifact to my own body?
  216. [5:29:12 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: You may describe the incident again, perhaps it will provide some insight?
  217. [5:32:52 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I was inspecting an item, trying to ascertain what its abilities were, and in the process, I grafted onto myself the ability to see magic. I've grown used to it now, the glow isn't the constant distraction it was initially, but powerful auras still stand out to me.
  218. [5:38:16 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: And now you are able to physically interact with these auras, be immersed in the energy, and be bodily tranformed by them?
  219. [5:40:53 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> No, not in this case—there's been another incident that concerned me deeply about the nature and potential effects of my abilities, and it also involves a transfer of something I've seen into a physical reality.
  220. [5:42:35 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: Indeed? What were the details?
  221. [5:46:41 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I had a vision of the place in which I was standing. It was a store, and the keeper of the store was there in my vision, as she was in person. And when I returned from my vision, I found her at my side just as I had seen her with my inner sight, as well as behind the counter, where she had been before I had begun to See.
  222. [5:49:33 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: You brought a person with you through your vision travel?
  223. [5:51:14 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I don't know if I should believe it. But the fact of the matter is that there are now two of her in the world, where previously there was one.
  224. [5:52:07 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> This I know to be no hallucination; others could see her and touch her and speak with her, as well, including her original self.
  225. [5:54:24 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Echo is silent for a while. The wind rustles the leaves overhead.]
  226. [5:55:46 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: You don't have access to the location for further observations on the people and place, correct?
  227. [5:56:20 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> No. It was far away—have you heard of the Khaswag Confederacy?
  228. [5:57:12 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: River had mentioned it in passing.
  229. [6:01:57 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: Planar magics often involve connecting points between planes of existence; have you encountered such instances during your travels?
  230. [6:05:49 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> That's the place. We were originally taken there by a Xa'tem, and River took us back—I'm sure it's possible to go there again, but there was a great battle in that place, and there's no guarantee that either of them survived.
  231. [6:10:30 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: Xa'tem magic is generally not considered planar, but that distinction is mostly dogmatic. Your freeform manifestation of magic may have borrowed from the experience, whether you were aware of it or not. Of course, this is merely conjecture, and I do not think you wish to experience a formal investigation and experimentation.
  232. [6:11:10 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Echo was rather stationary while in thought, but now hums in amusement and shifts her weight on her stone seat.]
  233. [6:11:55 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> Not at the moment, definitely, but at some point, it may be reassuring to have a better understanding of what my powers are capable of, and how to control them.
  234. [6:15:33 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: As a word of recommendation, you may want to go into such detailed empirical investigation outside of the State. Our methods here are quite thorough and likely unpleasant for the subject. But in the present, is there anything else I could do for you?
  235. [6:19:01 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> That was my main item of interest, to see if you knew anything about what might have caused this, and what risks there are that it might happen again. And I appreciate your words on the subject; I'll give your recommendation serious consideration.
  236. [6:19:23 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> More generally, do you believe there's some chance that the things I see in my visions have any reality beyond my experiences of them?
  237. [6:24:11 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: I believe so, though across the mage population of the State, the agreement will be more subdued. We recognize that the possibilities brought about by magic are practically endless, and we regulate heavily to avoid the negative possibilities, so that you travel through time, affecting events past and future, would likely be accepted as genuine.
  238. [6:26:14 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> I see. Thank you. These events certainly seem as real as anything to me, and I've convinced myself that there's evidence that I am, in fact, bodily transported—but always reassuring for an expert to confirm a hunch. Again, you have my gratitude.
  239. [6:29:58 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> Echo: You flatter, I am only proficient in my own field. It is best not to rely too much on my words. However, I am glad to have been informative at least.
  240. [6:31:26 PM CDT] <[Multi]_Meadow> As the one who brought out my Sight in the first place, I knew of no one better to consult. Thank you for meeting with me; besides the practical question, it's good to see that you're prospering.
  241. [6:47:30 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> [Echo thanks Meadow and invites her to stay a while longer, bringing out a picnic of sorts with fruits and bread; the remaining two of Echo's children come along as well, making a whole five of them riding on her back when returning to the yard. Echo's partner, an astronomer, is still asleep and she hopes that Meadow's next visit will be long enough for her to be introduced. Near sunset, Meadow and Flame return to the Ynni's house to
  242. [6:47:30 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> prepare for departure. It appears that Sindr had given her sisters her decision, as Risal is a bit less lively than earlier in the day but Iris' spirits are buoyed by her pride in what she could provide her older sister as well as the great tales and achievements Sindr would bring back in the future. Flame guides your group back to the old administration building where you meet with River, who takes over leading your group through the
  243. [6:47:31 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> checkpoint in the Wall and outside the City. Your group walks a ways further under the purple twilight skies until you are beyond a stand of trees and out of sight before River transports you back to Mulyond.]
  244. [6:47:51 PM CDT] <[Cy2]> |||+++--- [62] ---+++|||
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