The wooden beams of the Jenivere groaned as it conquered yet another wave. Her bow dipped down into the water and the ship readied itself for the next wave that would try to claim her. Alizandru Kovack, the captain of the Jenivere, stands calmly on the poop deck while the ship's first mate Alton Devers is below deck studying the inside of his eyes. Second mate Jamesby, blessed with the face of a permanently confused bulldog, stands watch over the wheel on the stern deck. Overhead a clear sky reflects the endless blue of the ocean, but it shouldn't be long before the Jenivere will reach it's final destination: Eleder, the capital of Sargava, a land of opportunity.
With little more than a week left until landfall all onboard the Jenivere find themselves facing a growing sense of anticipation. The sailors are already sharing their words of wisdom amongst each other. Their ceaseless babbling has taught you which brothels to avoid and given you insight on the many things an itch can tell you - not every itch is just an itch. Sargava, truly a land of opportunity. As is custom, the captain invites all of you over to his luxurious cabin for dinner when the copper disk in the sky sinks down into the endless blue surrounding you.
Other than the above mentioned six individuals, a plain-looking Varisian woman who carries herself with the attitude of a scholar joins you. You know her by now, just like you've got to learn a thing or two about your fellow travelers onboard the Jenivere, and her name is Ieana. A sailor with a lazy eye swears that she's the actual owner of the ship and is planning on selling it as soon as it reaches Eleder. The impression you've gotten from the many dinners you got to share with her is that she's a bore of a woman, only interested in the books she brought along. Next to Ieana, the captain and whenever he's awake, first mate Alton Devers, there is only one more person who frequently visits these dinners: Arrasti, a Chelish man with the facial features of a rat. His short frame and well-kept fingernails indicate that he is a stranger to hard labor. The overly exaggerated manner of his voice and mannerisms has made Ieana leave the dinner table prematurely more than once, but the captain seems to like him. They often bounce questions back and forth, usually about the state of Cheliax and the current affairs of Westcrown. Whatever Arrasti's profession is, you have no clue.
And so the table is set. Six travelers from all over the world join the captain, Ieana and Arrasti in the captain's cabin. The smell of roasted chicken and rosemary welcomes you as you enter. Boiled Arcadian potatoes sprinkled with coarse Thuvian salt are awaiting to be drenched in gravy and a big pan filled with haricot verts and bits of bacon complete the meal. A barrel with watered-down beer is at the ready to quench your thirst and wash away the salt of the sea, for now. One by one you enter the cabin, but the captain and Ieana are already present. It isn't until all six travelers are seated that Arrasti arrives. Those with a sharp eye can tell his right thumb is trembling - a twitch that you haven't seen before.
You have all had ample occasion to get to know Iomestria -- possibly not always in a favourable manner. Every day, she seems to be everywhere, running from one end of the deck to another, bothering the sailors with questions about the ship, the part of the sea the ship is currently sailing through, the fish swimming alongside, the seagulls flying overhead... It's like having a child constantly underfoot, except Iomestria is clearly in her late teens.
When poor Desiona came on board, she found Iomestria openly staring at her ears and face, only then to exclaim: "It's an Elf! You're an Elf! Yes! Just like the books! Tell me, is it true your people all live in trees and only eat fruits and leaves? I suppose a big tree could be hollowed out to fit quite a nice house, but not all trees are that big that I've seen, and I don't believe you all live in huts up in the canopy, no matter what my brother said..."
And so on and so forth.
Mind you, it was even worse when Chimalsy boarded the Jenivere. With a complete lack of malice aforethought, the young girl flicked his bead-woven hair and laughed at the clacking noise with artless delight, then asked whether his skin was really that colour or that he made it even darker on purpose... "Is it true that Mwangi people all live in tents and drive cows from pasture to pasture, then set up new tents?" she asked him. "And that your women walk around without vests on? And that every man keeps three to five wives? The book I saw about the Mwangi was rather old, so I suppose there may have been changes since it was written..."
And so on and so forth. It seems impossible to go anywhere near the excitable redhead without her bombarding you with questions about your past, your current life, your profession, your homeland, and whatever else she can come up with. She asks so many questions, it may take you quite a while to realize she never seems to answer any questions about herself; she keeps finding other subjects to discuss.
About the only time she seems to shut up is early in the mornings, when she displays another of her quirks; the girl dances. She dances on deck in utter silence, ignoring everyone around her even if they try to get in the way, and she dances until she nearly collapses with exhaustion. Once the dance is finished, she retreats to her cabin for maybe an hour, then comes out only to continue running around and asking questions.
* * * * * * * * *
Iomestria arrives to the captain's table early, energetic as ever.
"Oh my, potatoes!" she exclaims. "There weren't very many books about Arcadia at home, I wonder why there isn't more traffic...? Oh, I do like green veggies! Ms. Ieana, you're always reading books, which subjects have you brought with you? Oh -- thank you for your invitation to dinner, Captain! So kind of you."
After being pulled out of the box by a couple of confused sailors, Davy was quick to befriend the captain, explaining the whole situation that got him there in the first place and drawing laughs from the captain and his crew. Of course, the fact that he carried a full purse—which is now empty—was of help, as he promptly offered to pay for a ticket to Sargava as soon as he learned where the ship was bound to. Having paid the fare, Davy found himself free of duties, and spent most time aboard getting to know the other travelers and the sailors.
Upon learning that a certain woman had brought along plenty of books, Davy immediately went after Ieana to borrow some of them for the trip, a request which she reluctantly gave in to. Thus, Davy spent the free time during the day reading in his room or making small talk around the ship; at night, after the occasional dinner with the captain, he developed the habit of gathering a few of the sailors and travelers to drink and play cards on the deck, a practice that first illicited the ire of the captain and required a good deal of sweet-talking to get everyone out of trouble. In the end, the captain agreed to let the crew have their fun at night, as long as it didn't interfere with their dayjobs. Davy has repeatedly invited the other travelers to take part in his reunions, having lost more than a few gold pieces to that sneaky Varisian guy–"How come you have the best hand? Pfff!" and insisting that the Mwangi priest with the difficult name tries at least one game to see how he likes it. The only one he seems to keep out of the drinking is the peppy teenage girl who is always asking questions about everything –"Sorry kiddo, you're too young for that!"
All in all, Davy has had a good time on board the Jenevere, and is terribly excited to be finally approaching Sargava.
-----------------------
"G'night!", Davy greets everyone as he enters the room. He stops before the captain and makes a slight measure. "Thanks for having me over once more, captain. I see we have potatoes... again!" He grabs a goblet and pours himself some wine, sitting down comfortably and raising a toast. "To our last days at sea – well, at least for a while, right, captain? So, tell me again, are you sure you never heard of the famous explorer Ricket Dagaroth? I figured his deeds should be known all over Sargava, from what I read of his journals. A true adventurer, I'd say!"
Four months ago...
After having jumped aboard the Jenivere to escape a severe beating (or worse) by a rival Magnimaran gang, Viorec finds himself in the cargo hold of a merchant ship. He straightens out his clothes, making himself appear to be as respectable as possible, and sneaks past any sailors to the top deck. There, he assumes the bearing of an entitled merchant, convincing the Second Mate that his employer, the Magmimar Merchants' Guild, "had certainly paid my passage to...um..." he fumbles a moment, gesticulating with his hand in apparent frustration, as if he can't quite remember the name of his destination...
"Eleder?" offers Jamesby.
Viorec snaps his fingers, "Yes! Eleder! Please check your records again. I'm sure the Merchants' Guild would not be pleased if their payment went missing..."
. . .
Upon meeting Desiona aboard, he looks pleased. "Salutări, străin, de la un străin!"
Viorec tells her that he's an agent from the Merchant's Guild, scouting out new prospects in Sargava. Guessing that she'll trust him, it isn't the same story he told her when they'd met two days earlier in the Bazaar of Sails.
. . .
A day after leaving Westcrown...
"...and THAT, my dear Iomestria, is how the Shoanti convinced the giants to build a HUGE bridge for their mastadon-mounted army! Unfortunately, the giants tricked them, and it collapsed under the weight of all of those beasts. Today, we call what's left of that bridge the Irespan..."
. . .
Two nights after leaving Ilizmagorti, on the deck...
"I'll see your five and raise you ten." After a moment, the last remaining player called. "Tower of Crowns. So sorry to take more of your silver, Davy. Another hand?"
. . .
Viorec enters the captain's cabin with a flourish, shaking everyone's hand in greeting. "Captain! Thank you so much for the invitation! I will say that the Magnimar Merchants' Guild has been receiving glowing reports of your skill and your ship's hospitality!" He pours himself a taknard of beer and raises his glass to Davy's toast.
Boarding Jenivere, and interacting with the ship's crew.
Bidding farewell to her extensive Varisian family and many friends at the Magnimar port with many farewells, and waving techni-colored scarves, Desiona first demanded a tour of the Jenivere, to ensure the ship was "clean".
Unconcerned about any detritus aboard, she quickly declared that all was well, and that the ship seems to live up to it's lucky standards.
Since then, the other passengers have likely noticed that the crew is even more superstitious that normal. Desiona throughout the voyage, Desiona frequently makes the rounds for "spiritual stow-aways," and has confirmed the fear that the combination of great fortune, and great zest for life, tends to attract wandering spirits, who are especially abundant at sea!
Meeting Viorec...
When she first encounters Vioerc her eyes are wide in surprise. "Salutări..." She stammers. She then she leans forward and her eyes narrow suspiciously, and then her expression brightens. "...Stimate prieten! Nu-ți amintești? Tu ai fost cel care ma salvat de la care minciuna gorgio hoț! Sunt eu, Desiona!"
She is then slightly confused. She did not see her friend and fellow traveler during the boarding. She quietly attempts to learn his story away from the prying ears of the gorgia crew, speaking only Varisian of course. Upon hearing his story, she immediately goes to the second mate to vouch for her completely trust-worthy and good-hearted friend, quelling any lingering doubts about him. Though there are probably none.
Meeting Iomestria...
Desiona is tickled by the great abundance of zest and energy that Iomestria brings aboard the ship. She laughs merrily at her excitement at seeing a real live elf. Desiona flaunts her exotic features, and lets the girl take a closer look at her elf ears if she should wish.
"Why yes, my darling, you have made a keen observation! I look like an elf! I have elf ears, and an elf face, you could say. I am sorry though, that I must disappoint you. I am merely a half-elf, though I am all Varisian! My father, though, was a real elf. He wore a cloak made of leaves, and he spoke of every tree in forest as if each were a personal friend of his!" She pauses a moment to gauge the girl's reaction, smiling at her, she shows the girl her bright blue scarf, drawing her attention to the curvy violet and green Varisian writing woven into it.
"You seem to be one who trusts written word more than what others say to you. Perhaps then, you shall believe my family's history as it is written here on my scarves. It is in Varisian, so you shall have to learn how to read our language, but I can teach you. You seem like a bright girl. I think you'll learn quickly! You can practice speaking with me and Viorec here!"
Watching the men gamble...
"...I am afraid it is a lesson many gorgio gamblers learn, my dear Davy. We Varisians are a very lucky people!"
During the greater part of the voyage...
Desiona continues making the rounds of the ship, checking for spirits how have blown aboard by the winds, or who may be following the ship in animal form.
However, she is sure to get to know each and every person aboard the ship, offering each a trade: a name and a story for a name and a story!
"Now that some time has passed, please tell me again- how did you end up in that box, my dear Davy!" Desiona asks at one point through suppressed laughter.
"And what is your purpose aboard the vessel, my dear handsome gorgio?" she asks John Smythe at one point.
When Chimalsy boards the ship...
Desiona recognizes a fellow spiritualist immediately. She is eager to practice her Polyglot as well.
"Ẹ kí alejò, lati kan alejò! Mo wa Desiona, a ti ẹbun abinibi Aje, ohun ti emi o le pe o? Ti wa ni o tun attuned si awọn ẹmí-aye? Ni mo fura o ni kan aiya ati alagbara ọkàn, lati baramu rẹ nla ti ara fireemu. Ṣe o wá lati kọ awọn miran lori irin-ajo lori omi yi, lati hone rẹ ẹbùn ki o si win ogo, tabi ti wa ni o ti wá awọn miiran idi??"
**************************************************************
Desiona sniffs the air as she enters the cabin. "Another splendid meal! We feast like gentry before we reach our destination, it is good, no?" She takes her seat, smiling warmly at her fellow passengers and the crew, all of whom she has gotten to know quite well as of yet.
"Other than the pleasure it has been to get to know all of you, it has been an uneventful voyage, no? And for this, we are most fortunate!"
Throughout the voyage, Chimalsi has been a distant, morose figure, participating in ship-board activities promptly and efficiently, but not really opening-up to any of the other crew-members or passengers about his past, even though there is clearly something dark and brooding hovering over him.
In fact, the only time he ever seems to show any semblance of contentment is on those rare occasions when he has a chance to fish, or climb the rigging and feel the wind in his hair.
On the evening that everyone is invited to the Captain's table, Chimalsi is standing at the prow of the ship, for all the world like a secondary figure-head carved from basalt. Staring out to sea, he had lost himself in the rise and fall of the waves, and the pleasant sound of the wind and gulls.
Although physically young, subtle wrinking around his eyes, and the grim, haunted look to his face hint at the fact that he has seen and experienced things beyond that which would be expected of a man his age.
Soon, brother. Soon I will find you, and make you pay for all that you have done. Even retreating to the lands of the White Devils won't protect you from my wrath.
When the summons comes, he does his best to clean himself up, and then presents to await the Captain's pleasure, enjoying the sight and scent of a sumptuous meal.
Once all are seated, he clears his throat, and respectfully says:
"Thank-you for the invitation to dinner, Captain. To what do we owe the pleasure?"
Captain Kovack beams a soft smile at his table guests. The two lanterns that light up the room sway along gently with the motions of the ship, adding a dynamic to the event with the focus of the light changing from one part of the room to another every other few seconds. He raises his tankard and welcomes you all with the following words,"Gozreh has smiled upon us so far and we owe Gozreh our gratitude. So before we say our prayers, I want to say a thing or two." Kovack then takes a sip from his tankard before continueing. "With only a week of sailing ahead of us until we reach Eleder, I feel that we must celebrate life. Every sailor knows how fleeting life can be. We avoided the pirate of the Shackles, survived a storm that drifted out of the Eye of Abadengo and shared many a story at this dinner table. Let us feast on the finest meal I have to offer to you and pay tribute to the voyage behind us. To the first of the last seven meals of this journey!"
With that being said, he inclines his head to pay his respects to the woman below and the man above before taking a big swig from his tankard. Arrasti follows suit and Ieana reluctantly raises her glass of red wine. "One more guest should join us soon, the esteemed Gelik Aberwhinge, but our gnomish companion is having troubles keeping whatever goes in, from going out. He did promise however that he'd wrestle himself out of his bed to join us.. alas, let us drink!"
The door to the captain's cabin then croaks as someone steps through. A familiar sight enters the room, hands clutching an oak barrel. It is Ishirou, one of the ship's hired hands who is paying for his voyage through labour. His ragged looks, unkempt hair and the fact he's missing more than one tooth make for a rather unpleasant sight. With a stiff bow he hands over the barrel of rum to the captain. He then quietly leaves the room. "Rum, anyone?"
"Ooh, a Gnome? Is it true they all wear pointed caps?" Iomestria asks, wide-eyed. "I've never seen a Gnome. Or a Halfling. My brother said a lot of our neighbours had halflings working for them, but I wasn't allowed to go and see because they were slaves, really, and those are treated really horribly in Cheliax..."
For a moment, the girl looks downcast, but it passes.
"Not for me, thank you," Iomestria says when Ishirou offers rum, smiling at him in a friendly way. "Is there tea? I love a good cup of tea, don't you? Of course Cheliax isn't well-known for its teas, but what with being a nexus for all sorts of trade routes, we do get a nice selection of teas from all over Avistan and some from outside. Vudrani teas are quite good, but I'm sorry to say the Tien teas I've seen so far were mostly green teas, which tend to be need a lot of pepping up, then again the Tien black teas are also good..."
And so on and so forth.
Desiona wears a bright expression, and responds to the captain in similar merriment.
"Aye, Gozreh, Nature, and the Spheres as well! We have been fortunate with many things. Not only have we avoided pirates and storms, we have not been pursued by any malevolent spirits for the length of the Voyage! I was disappointed though, when that pod of dolphins followed us, they all turned out to be normal dolphins, none acknowledged us as fellow sailors or sea farers. I didn't have time to speak with all of them though..."
For a moment the half-elf appears distant, and then brightens again.
"Though what do you expect? You have said this is a lucky ship, and you have three Varisians aboard! This was to be a lucky journey, from the start!"
Desiona hesitates at the proffering of rum for a moment, with one finger on her lip, eyes bright in in thought.
"Oh, I shall have some rum this evening! Spirits of this kind normally dull the senses, but we have fared so well, it shouldn't hurt to let my guard down this one eve!"
She accepts the rum, and then grinning mischievously at the others at the table, "do any of you know any sailors' drinking songs? The last leg of a journey is always longest, for the eagerness to finish the journey smothers patience. Let us shorten the final stretch!"
At the captain's toast, Viorec raises his tankard. "To the Wind and the Waves!" He takes a long drink. He then raises his glass again, "And to the Starsong! May Lady Luck be with us to the end of our journey!"
He also gladly accepts the captain's offer of some rum.
Davy drinks to Captain Kovack's toast and then once more to Viorec's. "Gotta say I like where this is going—the dinner, I mean, since under Desna's watch we don't really need to worry about the ship."
He puts his goblet down and leans forward approaching Desiona. "I'm sure my after hours mates know many songs you haven't heard yet, Desiona. Join us later and we'll learn some new tunes while your quick-fingered gypsy pal strips them off their silver like he did to me", he says winking at the two Varisians.
Davy then overhears Iomestria speaking about his homeland Cheliax. The girl shoots out questions faster than anyone can dare to answer, so Davy just chooses one of the subjects to offer her a piece of conversation. "Well, red, I'm from Cheliax myself, and I know what you mean about slaves being treated horribly. Those poor halflings—if you ain't human around those parts, you're in for a rough ride. Even so, I got some halfling buddies back at the Academy and let me tell you something: those little fellas know how to have a good time. Loads of fun, they are." He then invites Ieana to join the conversation, repeating Iomestria's initial question. "But please, Ieana, tell us what other books you have in your cabin. I'm nearly finished with the one you got me last week, I'll pick up something else tomorrow." His face lights up as he mentions the books.
Chimalsi bobs his head.
"The Gods of Air and Water have blessed our journey - we have had plain sailing, and that is something that I agree we can all be thankful for. I will be even more thankful, however, once we have reached Eleder, safe and sound."
When the Captain offers the rum, Chimalsi takes a cup, slowly savouring it as he listens to the banter of all of the other guests.
"Ẹ kí Desiona; orukọ mi ni Chimalsi Kybwa'ka, ati ki emi kan ti ìrẹlẹ iranṣẹ ti Shimye-Magalla, mo si diẹ ninu awọn alejò bi Desna, ati si awọn miran bi Gozreh. Mo ti wá wá nsán ti o ti kọja mi, ki emi ki o le ni ohun untarnished iwaju."
----------------
Chimalsi turns to Desiona with a slightly furrowed brow.
"Be careful not to overdo the rum, Desiona; whilst it may be part of the standard fare of the crew, those unused to it can find the effects quite deleterious, especially when adding in the ebb and flow of the sea..."
When Davy mentions slavery, Chimalsi shivers.
"In the Mwangi Expanse, slavery is not contained to 'little people'... There are tribes of cannibals and slavers, who will take anyone that they can get their hands on; men, women, children - no-one is safe, and everyone has a market value, even if it is only in the meat-market..."
Desiona grins wolfishly at Davy's suggestion. "An eve among the crew, eh? Sounds splendid! So long as it is understood, that we Varisian's are innocent in our fortune!" She winks at Viorec.
Her attention turns to Chimalsi as he warns her of the effects of rum. She blushes slightly and grins at him. "I appreciate your concern, Chimalsi. A Varisian woman values her virtue after all. I have lived my life near the sea, so the water is no trouble. I sense a strength about this rum though, so I shall be careful. Thank you!" She gives him a little peck on the cheek.
She then drinks to the captains toast, smiling and winking to pleasantries of the table.
"Whew! This stuff would get you through a storm!" Desiona cries regarding the rum.
"I hope no one has misunderstood me earlier. The dolphins were majestic, beautiful!- there has just been a strange silence about-" She does not finish her thought before the topic turns to slavery. Desiona listens somberly, nodding with each passenger's remarks.
"Well, I say slavery is wrong!" She declares loudly, "All people should be free to live the lives Nature has given them! No man or woman, little or not should be bound in chains." She raises her glass, her one swig of rum having already put a little bit of scarlet in her face, "Here's to the end of slavery, and to all people being free, as they were born to be!" Though the rum is perhaps loosening her tongue (even more than normal), Desiona is entirely sincere in making her toast.
*************************************************************
"Your - goddess? - is both Desna and Gozreh? That is splendid! I am Varisian, I grew up praying to Desna, yet I have always been so attuned to Nature, to the Spirit World, and the Air and to the Sky... To honor a single deity as both Nature and the Lady of Dreams..." She pauses and seems to stare off into another world for a moment, then after a little sigh, "You must tell me more about your religion! Though, perhaps after you are settled in."
"In taking this voyage, you clearly pursue a task of great personal importance. I shall not distract you from any meditations you must do to ready yourself. However, should you wish for the conversation of another who is attuned, I would appreciate having someone to talk with on spiritual matters. And when the time comes to meet your fate, be sure to let me know if I can be any help!"
Arrasti chuckles as the others discuss the topic of slavery. "It is divine providence, my dear, that some bear the burden of shackles. That others profit from it might leave a sour taste in the mouthes of some, but that's life. After all, it isn't about how much you agree with the rules, it is how well you know the rules. Now, can I have some rum?"
"Well, I don't like it," Iomestria says, simply. "It's alright if someone's committed a horrible crime and has to work off a debt to society, 'cause a corpse can't pay off anything unless you're a cannibal, but it's just horrid to do it to people for no better reason than not having any money or being shorter than a human. If it's money you want, then make sure the other person gets a job and dock their wages, don't treat them like a thing worse than an animal."
To Arasti, Viorec snorts. "There's nothing divine about slavery. It's not practiced at all in Varisia: slavery goes against the fundamental freedom of the soul. We are all wanderers, after all. And you Chelish call us backward!" He pauses. "But enough of politics!"
"I'm but a mortal man. Who am I to question the divine providence of Asmodeus? Only a fool would question a god as powerful as the venerated Lord of Hell. You're traveling to Eleder, but once you leave the safe confines of the city walls, you'll see exactly why the teachings of ASmodeus are a blessing. You'll see.." and with that being said, he hides behind his tankard, apparently being quite busy with sampling the captain's fine rum.
Viorc grins at Arasti's appeal to Asmodeus, but his eyes aren't smiling. "Were you turned about at the crossroads? With all due respect to the Prince of Darkness, I'll place my faith in Lady Luck, thank you. My employer is having me scout a promising lead in Eleder, but once I've sent my report, I just might follow the butterflies on my own. New roads beckon, after all!"
Viorec takes another swig of rum, realizing he's drained his glass. His eyes now smiling as well, he gestures with his empty glass to the captain, hoping for a refill.
"I'll stick with Nethys," Iomestria says. "At leazt when he does bad stuff, it's because he's crazy and no one is afraid to admit it. And he also does good to balance the bad."
Desiona gasps at the name Asmodeus. She lowers her glass, and sets it down, and makes a sign in the air, shoulder to shoulder in front of her chest. It is like a figure eight, slightly wider and longer at the top sides, and then a line is traced down through the middle.
"I do not wish to make you uneasy captain, but I shall add one thing. I have seen men and women who were controlled by evil spirits- from other places. Some from Hell. I'll only say, this is not an arrangement I understand why anyone would ever enter willingly."
She pauses, sighs and shakes her head, "The Dark One you praise, is a powerful evil spirit, no? Slavery is not practiced in Varisia, but there is a Chelish colony there. From what I have heard is happening with their queen, well, I sincerely hope that Eleder is faring better. I would question any blessings offered by the... Dark One, when there are other gods, who love us. And all gods are a part of Nature after all, no?"
At that point, sensing the tension at the table, Desiona raises a hand defensively, "Though I agree, enough of this talk." She blinks and sways slightly, "Whoah, speaking of powerful spirits, it is probably best we did not drink to my toast- half of the glass of this rum has made me tipsy! I must get some food in me 'less I end up on my ass this evening!"
She glances about the table, "Do we have water as well? Anyone want some? I can go get some from the kitchen if we have none here. Or you may pass me an empty glass, and I shall show you the blessings of Desna and Nature!"
Davy chuckles listening to the religious debate that has taken hold of the conversation. When Desiona decrees the end of the discussion, he nods in agreement and raises both hands to appease everyone. "Let's leave that for another time, to each his faith, right? The only god we know for sure is with us right now is the Lucky Drunk, for he has already blessed Desiona here", Davy says jokingly, alluding to the half-elf's tipsyness. He then turns his attention once more to Ieana, inquiring about her books yet again.
Desiona's mouth gapes for a moment at Davy's irreverent comment. Then her gape turns into a wide smile, and the tipsy half-elf begins laughing so hard, she nearly falls out of her chair.
Face a little scarlet, and a tear in her eye, she catches her breath. She gives Davy a sly look.
"Pass me an empty glass you rascal! Really, though you are gorgio, you have a Varisian sense of humor! But pass me an empty glass, and I shall show you the blessings of the gods I follow!"
As soon as an empty glass is hand, holding a finger over it, and raising her other hand, her expression suddenly becomes serene, meditative.
"Desna, és a Földanya, én alázatosan kérni tõled, május az eső tisztítja és táplálja."
With a little purple spark at her finger, the glass suddenly fills with water. She smiles at everyone in the table, eyes bright, and winks at Chimalsi.
She picks up the glass and takes a sip. "Ah, as pure as fresh fallen rain!"
"If the ship is still going up and down, even when not all of us are drunk, we know Gozreh is right outside, too," Iomestria tells Davy with a perfectly straight face. Then she winks.
The cabin door swings open and a haggard looking gnome enters. The sway in his step does not match or counter the soft motions the ship is making on the ocean's waves. The little man sports some impressive dark circles around his eyes, one of many signs that he isn't enjoying this trip whatsoever. Still, the gnome's clothes look fabulous and give him the air of a nobleman.
He takes off his hat, flourishes it with an impressive gesture giving his circumstances and inclines through his knees. "Do I have permission to join you, Captain Kovac?" he asks to which the captain's answer is a firm nod. The gnome secures a stool and sits down next to Iomestria. You notice that the man's pale complexion is turning a milkier shade of white at the sight of the food. He averts his eyes from the table and focuses them on the table guests instead. "My apologies for my current state, but I am soaking up all the bad luck that is targetting this journey so that we all may arrive safe and sound in Eleder. My name, as some of you might know, is Gelik Aberwhinge and yes, I know I'm a very tall gnome."
"I honestly wouldn't know, sir," Iomestria says while looking Gelik up and down and seeming to drink in every detail, "I've never met a Gnome in person before. Do you really have misfortune-draining powers? I imagine that would be very useful to have, but only so long as you're working as a group and there's someone to keep an eye on you while you're drawing in the misfortune so you don't come to lasting harm -- or is it a spell you can cast and regulate? Ooh, that might be interesting to research someday, except maybe it would make sense to use an inanimate object like a rock as the focus of the drained misfortune, the better to prevent suffering to people, then again, considerations of loss of wages shouldn't be forgotten, since some people might actually form castes of 'lightning rods' for a community's misfortune, receiving payment for protection of their people's prosperity..."
Iomestria's thoughts seem to be leaping from one subject to the next, and her eyes continue to study Gelik most keenly.
"Right now I seem to have no control over my misfortune" the gnome replies with dull eyes screaming how tired he is of the journey by ship and perhaps one or two other things.
"Would you like something to drink, perhaps?" Iomestria suggests, solicitously. "Not the rum, though, I don't think strong drink would sit well if you feel this horrible, but maybe some soothing tea? Chamomile tea would be really good to give you some sleep, if the quartermaster has any."
A cloud passes across Chimalsi's face when Desiona mentions that something is clearly distracting him.
"I am afraid that it is something of which I am too ashamed to speak; there are some things that one just does not speak of, except under the direst of circumstances... but rest assured, if I need assistance, I will know where to look."
Chimalsi cannot help but wince when the poor Gnome joins the diners.
That one clearly is no sailor, but he still gamely holds on, even making fun of his plight; he has strength of character at least - I have to give him that...
"Indeed, something to soothe the stomach might be excellent... My people have long worked the water-ways around the Expanse, and are familiar with the fact that water-travel does not agree with everyone... I would be happy to talk with the Quartermaster, to see what I could do to help..." He turns to the Captain, expectantly adding: "If that is alright with you, of course, Captain...?"
Desiona listens to Chimasli and seems to drink his words. She grins, animated and bright-eyed at the description of the capricious goddess of the stars and seas. "To me, I feel as if you describe Desna- though you understand another side of her, that I have felt, and I was never able to name..." she muses, enthused (perhaps before her observation of Chimasli's hidden purpose).
Then, at the passing shadow over Chimalsi's visage , Desiona's expression and posture are all sympathy. "You need not say more," she says softly, "just remember that you do not have to be alone on this voyage."
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Desiona watches the poor gnome enter the room and join the table with a silent, piteous croon. She is discrete when enjoying her meal so as not to upset the new guest.
Sipping her water, Desiona listens to the helpful suggestions proffered by her new friends. She nods and then attempts to catch the gnome's eye, "All splendid suggestions dear gnome, but I do wish you had come to visit me earlier in the voyage," she raises her hands in the air, and wears a coy smile, "I am a trained healer after all!" Desiona sighs.
"I should not treat anyone tonight- as I have been visited by the god of rum," she turns a mock look of scorn at Davy, "Though if you still feel ill in the morn, after the others have helped you, come to me. I have a few remedies for an ill belly, some of touch, and others by herbal mixtures."
"Please, join us, Mr. Aberwhinge! Sorry you never got your sea legs."
The gnome waves away Iomestria's offer. "No, I want nothing, nothing at all. The sweet serenity of death would be a welcome change of pace to the horrid state of my life right now!" In short, mister Aberwhinge doesn't seem to be in the best of moods, much to the amusement of Arrasti.
"I do hope you'll feel better when we make land," Iomestria says, solicitously. "Would you be more comfortable lying down? I could help you get back to your cabin. I'm sure no one wants to force you to stay at the captain's table if it'll only make you suffer. No one decent, anyhow."
Gelik seems a little annoyed, but realizes he can't scold the woman for being nice. The conflict is clearly visible on his face as he weighs his words. He sounds quite weary once he speaks, "I'm .. fine, really. Do enjoy your meal, I'll simply watch and observe."
Chimalsi nods, and returns to his meal, but in deference to the beleaguered Gnome, tries not to show too much enjoyment.
Viorec raises his glass of rum for another toast. "Well, then to the end of this journey, and to the start of the next journey to come!"
Desiona raises her glass, joining in on Viorec's toast, "And to many more journeys afterward! We are all travelers here, and so may Desna, protector of those who wander, continue to bless us." She takes a small sip of rum, barely wetting her lips, and then takes a thirstier drink of water.
"And Sinashakti, the Azata of the endless journey," Iomestria says, smiling at Desiona. She takes a tentative sip of rum, makes a face and gulps down a glass of water. "Ugh, much too strong for me!"
Desiona returns Iomestria's smile, eyes bright, "May he bless us indeed! I do believe there is a monument of Sinashakti in Magnimar. Or at least there are many of his followers in that city, a place established by travelers after all!"
Then when Iomestria recoils from her sip of rum, "Oh, be careful darling! Rum is no forgiving spirit! Also, you, like me, are probably a light weight, and unaccustomed to this drink. It works fast on girls like us!"
"And to Sinashakti!" Viorec takes another slug of rum.
Davy opens up some space and invites the gnome to sit by his side, between him and Iomestria. "Here, you poor sufferer! If you can't enjoy the feast, at least enjoy the best company you could have!" He pauses for a moment, waiting for the others to give him a nasty look for his conceitedness, and then follows up with a joke to break the tension. "Why, I mean Iomestria, of course!", he offers with a laugh.
Davy then grabs some potatoes and flickers his fingers over it, a violet glow pouring out of his hand. "Aberwhinge, if it's the taste and smell of food that's turning your stomach, try this. No taste, no smell. To be fair, I usually use this trick to my meals, but maybe it suits you..."
During Davy's conjured moment of tension, Desiona does give him another look of play-scorn, which turns into a coquettish arched brow and smirk. "Rascal!" She cries, in laughter. "Though I do admire the resourcefulness you have with your magic."
After that, Desiona turns to Iomestria once more. "So tell me Iomestria, do you honor Sinashakti, Azata of endless wandering, and good friend to Desna, as your prime guardian and patron spirit, or do you follow all of the Empyreal Lords?"
Pausing briefly, she leans back in her seat, placing a finger lightly on her lip. Then lowering hands to the table, she leans forward just a bit. "Oh, You also mentioned Nethys earlier.. It seems to me you have an interesting religion! Would you care to tell us something more about yourself, darling, after the many questions we have answered for you?" She says the last part with a friendly wink.
St. John seems to come to, as if he was far away. He quietly snorts in the gnomes direction. Captain, a most excellent rum. Thank you very much for it. Gelik, you have spent so much time in your cabin I never got to paint you a portrait as a reminder of your journey. Of course you may not wish to be reminded of this journey. With that said he grins at the gnome.
He then looks at Iomestria, Iomestria do be careful with your rum old girl. We don't want to have to carry you back to your cabin as that is strong stuff.
Iomestria frowns a bit at her rum, then shrugs.
"You should at least sip when someone is toasting," she tells Desiona and St. John in a very serious tone. "Papa taught me so. But I'm sorry to say I don't like the taste at all." She shakes her head, setting her crimson hair swishing.
She blinks, surprised, when Davy describes her as 'the best company'.
"Thank you very much, I'm sure," she says, doubt in her voice. "I'm not sure what I've done to deserve that title, though..."
Desiona's question about religion brings back the girl's easy smile: "Papa always says religion is sad because Aroden's dead, but I think I get by quite well. Nethys the All-Seeing Eye brings magic, which is endlessly interesting."
The easy smile is chased away by a small frown.
"Of course he's pretty crazy... and he doesn't really give any rules, except for 'don't give magic to who doesn't have any of their own'. He doesn't forbid anything other than that, which means he can be really scary. I don't like to judge, but... Well."
A fresh smile.
"But that's where the Empyreal Lords come in! Yes, I think they're all very interesting, and they're guides on the path of Good. That's all you can ask for when petitioning the higher powers, isn't it? The power to do what you must and guidance so you don't lose sight of the True Path."
She blushes a little when she is asked about herself.
"There isn't much to tell," she says, shyly. "I've always lived at home, in Westcrown. I've never really left the house, I was always studying things. Any old thing that came to hand. This is my first time going anywhere. I'm sure Sinishakti must have been a bit disappointed with me until now."
Desiona chuckles a bit as Iomestria comments on the principles of toasting and her dislike of rum and then shakes her crimson mane. "Your papa taught you well," she interjects kindly.
Desiona then listens to everything Iomestria says about religion, drinking her words. Her gaze is tense, her expression serious at the comments on Aroden, and then a contemplative look, eyes musing at the discussion of the Nethys, which brightens into a smile at the talk on the Empyreal lords.
Her eyes widen a bit as the girl talks about her sheltered life so far. This seems to surprise Desiona a little bit.
"I think Shinishakti is happy to accept you as a ward. The Empyereal Lords love unconditionally, such is the nature of benevolent divinity. I have felt their love before..." She muses gently. Then, the the half-elf's gaze becomes distant, as hand twirls her dark tresses a bit.
"I do not know much about Aroden, the supposed god of humanity. Though lot's of bad things happened after his death, no? ... I know the gods I have felt... Desna and Gozreh, and the Empyreal Lords. And Nethys. I have- seen his power. Yes, he is a powerful god indeed."
Desiona snaps back to the present, with a slight blush and cheerful smile. Her eyes bright with curiosity about her companion.
"It surprises me, Iomestria, that this not only your first voyage, but your first time away from home as well? You have taken to the sea so naturally, darling, I would say you are a traveler at heart!"
She cocks her head a bit, her smile pensive, " So why the voyage now? Has your father at last seen that it is time for you discover yourself out in the world, and develop your talents with life as your teacher?"
Seeing that Iomestria seems to have taken his remark a bit too seriously, Davy leans over, around the gnome by his side, and speaks on the girl's ear. "It's a joke, kiddo, just roll with it. You don't have to question , you know..."
He then sits back and rolls his eyes as the discussion about gods and religion goes on. His own curiosity lies in another subject, however, and he touches captain Kovack's arm to grab his attention and start a parallel conversation. "So, captain, tell me more about Sargava and its mysteries. I would love to join an expedition to the jungle as soon as we get there... I've read that it still houses countless ruins of ancient and lost civilizations, is it true?"
"It's a family vacation," Iomestria says, smiling somewhat tremulously. "And an adventure! Mama made all the arrangements. We all had to take our own route to get there! It'll be very exciting to meet up again in Sargava."
Iomestria nods very seriously when Davy clarifies his statement.
"Ahh, I see. Thank you for explaining. But if I hadn't questioned it, I would have felt obliged to be the ultimate company all the time, wouldn't I?"
Then the redheaded girl winks, and a small smile parts her lips, revealing straight, white teeth...
Desiona notices Iomestria's nervousness but doesn't say anything of it. She says with an approving smile, "Well, I do hope you will introduce us when we get there. By getting to know you, I would guess your family must be lovely people!"
Desiona turns to the captain as well, with a look of girlish excitement. "I too would like to hear everything you may tell us about Sargava, captain. This is my first adventure apart from my family and friends I have traveled with all my life! I promised my mother that I would not merely stand in the shadows of greatness this time, so I am curious about opportunities there, especially expeditions into the jungle! Anything for a young wanderer to discover her full talents..."
She turns a sly smirk at Davy again, "Perhaps this rascal shall have me along? Someone needs to keep him out of trouble anyway- wouldn't want him to end up in another box!"
As she speaks, she notices Iomestria's straight teeth. There is more to this girl than she is letting on... As a follower of Nethys, perhaps she has magic welling in her. For a moment, her gaze is distant again, as if in reverie, we all have our secrets, don't we mother?
She then returns to the present and looks eagerly on the captain for what he may say about Sargava.