Mikani puts Drop of Ruby Necklace in a black pouch with a vibrant red rose on both sides.

It was a long journey from Arx to the Lyceum, especially with the persistence of the whirlpool preventing a convenient port to travel from by sea. By land, by sea, and then land again after arriving in a nearby port city you go, away from the cities and the Great Road that connects them to a remote location between Lenosia and Caith where a shave tribe said to speak the dialect of Lycene shave most closely resembling the language of Uanna.
You establish a camp not too far from where your scouts locate the settlement at the edge of the jungle, which is where Mirk will wait until you have established contact. How you go about doing so is up to you. One might assume that the shavs know about your camp, but they have not made any threatening moves as long as you have kept a respectful distance.

"I just want to remind everyone that if you want someone stealthy, I'm the most likely to get captured by shav'arvani, even if I /am/ a scout." Lou points out to the people she's with, but not without looking sheepish about that one time she got captured by a group of shav'arvani in the Gray Forest, who were apparently being held captive by abyssal tainted Northern shav'arvani needing their help. Her hands may have been tied up, so she couldn't mime communication at them, but they let her keep her weapons, so it didn't turn out all so bad! Except she had to be rescued, while she was rescuing the shav'arvani. She maaaay have learned a bit more stealth after that trip, but not so much more. "And, the local dialect is not a language I know here, but if needed I could try Crownlands shav or Northlands shav. They're similar, somewhat, but still different enough." She might have also made certain to learn Crownlands shav after that incident too!

Travel was someone the Lycene prince was all too familiar with, aside from the past couple of years in relative stagnancy in Arx. While he was rarely one that sought adventure, he enjoyed it when it came and with such fashionable company as well, Gaspar cared little for the tedium of switch from horse to carriage to ship and back again. But now was the time, after everyone had settled to get down to business. A glance and nod was given to Lou, coupled with a smile. "I must agree, I will be less than useless in anything martial or clandestine."

Lisebet is petite, but stealthy is not something she's known for. Nor is martial. She flashes a grin at Lou, and then over at Gaspar, as they basically claim they're about the same as she is. Whether that is true or not, the petite duchess shrugs delicately, and then says, "I am also not likely very clandestine or martial. Marital, yes, but that's a different story." A pause, and she then adds, "Nor do I speak the local dialect, I must admit. I do speak the Oathlands dialect, if it helps any. I rather suspect that between us we might have many of the dialect varieties covered."

Aiden was a last minute addition, perhaps, for someone else that couldn't go. He wasn't an overall bad choice, considering he was a high ranked member of the Lycene peerage, with Gemecitta a little further south west than the route they were on. The Duke kept company with the Marquis Blackwood, for most of the trip. He knew some of the others of the party of course, but there was a friendship that kept the Rubino by the Blackwood. There was also the addition of the infamous gyrfalcon Baron Archibald, whom kept Aiden occupied during the length of the trip on horseback, his eyes often in the sky and chattering away at the raptor. Perhaps, some would assume, it could chatter back to him by the way he would go on with it. "Now you see why I'm gone for lengths at a time? Arx to Gemecitta, without the sail, is exceptionally long of hoof." Aiden proclaims to Cadern, as he strokes the chest feathers of the gyrfalcon, "Wouldn't it be splendid when we can fly? I hear there had been someone dreaming up a mechanical contraption for flight. Imagine that." He catches up to the conversation ahead, amusing, "Do we need to go in with stealth, when we have eyes in the sky?" He indicates to Archibald. He's probably crazy, right? Well, not for those who have worked with this bird duo before.

Cadern is not a particularly accomplished rider. If anything he's a bit of a complainer but Cadern seems comfortable enough on the road. He studies the place and the people. He glances up and over to Lou and he smiles faintly, "We have a story about a young man. Called little red chief int he north... remind me to tell you about that some time." He considers that, "I like to think this group is not interested in martial conflict we'll see what it happens." He looks curious as Aiden talks about eyes in th sky raising a brow and he shrugs, "It's always a calculated risk meeting with new people." He says warmly and he grins at Aiden, "Well as long as you write down what you see I'll happily stay in arx and you all can write what you see."

Rosalie is by no means an experienced rider, but she makes do witht he overland portion of the trip, the adventuring gear that she's kept up over the years holding up nicely to one of her rare jaunts out of the city. She keeps to herself, largely, always with a polite smile or kind word for anyone that approaches her. But for the most part she tends to focus inward, seeming perhpas a bit of a daydreamer because of it. As they approach, however, she looks to Lou and offers a faint smile, "I can scout ahead if need be. My natural inclinations are towards quiet and soft steps, its has proven useful more than once. But I am not versed in any of the shav'arvani dialects. All of my linguistic training has been towards more.. exotic tongues. But I am always game to try!" She ends on a bright note, a brief but cheerful smile on her lips before she falls quiet once more and falls to consulting her various notes once again.

Mikani rides by Cadern. She shakes her head at his lack of sense of adventure. "I am sorry to say that Lycene Shav isn't one of the languages I speak .... I'm much better to the north and east." She pipes up but stays with the group.

Lou eyes Aiden when he says someone was dreaming up a mechanical contraption for flight, squinting at him. "Just so long as no one attempts to 'borrow' my flying clockwork griffon." Lou is very, very protective of her flying clockwork griffon. It's never far from her. Yeah, yeah, clockwork is one of those weird terms, but she looks super serious about it! As far as her riding skills go? She seem somewhat accomplished at that. Many years in the saddle, out exploring. Or, something like that. "Who among us is the diplomat?" she glances about, then looks back to Aiden, "Have you learned the local dialect during your time in the Lyceum, cousin? Though, with luck, they should know Arvani too. Most shav'arvani do. Otherwise, I'm good with drawing stick figures and pantomiming for communication," she grins somewhat cheekily at this. Again, also, super serious even with the cheeky grin.

"I'll be more than willing and able to lend my tongue to more diplomatic pursuits, but we will either need to hope one of them can understand us or that our words, through whatever attempts we make to speak theirs, are received appropriately." Arms folded across his chest while he made ready to listen to any more ideas.

Lisebet takes a breath and then she says, "I am reasonable at diplomacy, much of the time." That at least is quite a reasonable assumption, at least, and she doesn't seem to be keeping it a secret. "If need be, I suppose I also can draw stick figures, given I don't speak the language." She nods to Gaspar, a cheeky smile crossing her face. "I can certainly assist, your highness, if it will help at all." She's certainly hopeful, and no mistake.

"That is a splendid idea!" Aiden reacts to Lou's first words with a boyish excitement, then furrows his brows, "Now if only I could remember who it was that was... trying to build something to mimic a bird." His finger taps his lips and then he gestures with an eccentric shrug, "No matter. We will fly one day, one way or another. Your griffon is safe, for now." He teases Lou, seemingly taking to riding like walking, it was second nature! "I'm halfway decent cousin, but no, I have not spent time learning the dialect of the shav... there has been a Clan Stormstorm on our tail feathers and too much time spent trying to sweep up those feathers. Maybe I ought too, though it doesn't really interest me. Maybe we can hire someone." He looks around, "Why didn't we hire someone?" He was late to the party afterall and hadn't a say in who was who in the zoo.

Mikani laughs softly, "I'm sure they will know Arvani or with a mixture of what I know I might be able to try and work it out. I do know three other shave dialects." Mikani offers, "Though I do say we should get there sooner better than later."

"I am trained in diplomacy but I am also happy to leave it to those better experienced with it. I can fit myself in well enough where needed," Rosalie responds once more, glancing up briefly from her notes with a quick smile. "As to flying, its a wonder nobody has tried speaking to Brass about it. He built the Nightstar, after all. And that ship is said to have sailed the skies all across the world. I had thought one of the smiths was seeking to apprentice themselves to him, but I may be misremembering..." THe smile turns to a thoughtful frown, one gloverd finger tapping at her lower lip before she shrugs and smiles once more, "But that is neither here nor there."

"Er. I've been planning trips to Brightshore in the Saffron Chain," Lou explains to Aiden, explaining her 'not it' approach to hiring a translator. "We'll manage just fine," she assures him, pretty certain on that matter. Or, at least, she looks like she hopes they'll manage just fine. She nods in agreement with Mikani, and then gives Rosalie, Gaspar, and Lisebet encouraging smiles. She pauses her horse a moment, then notes. "We should ride to the very outskirts of their village, keeping a respectful distance, and hail them, asking for someone to talk. Stressing we mean them new harm. I have a few gifts I brought with me to sweeten the deal." Lou always has something stuffed in her backpack of many things for such a situation.

Mikani puts A Brightly Colored Rainbow Unicorn Headband in a black pouch with a vibrant red rose on both sides.

Mikani puts A Brightly Colored Rainbow Unicorn Headband in a black pouch with a vibrant red rose on both sides.

Mikani puts Cute Unicorn Plushie in a black pouch with a vibrant red rose on both sides.

Mikani puts Mythical Black Butterfly Unicorn Gown in a black pouch with a vibrant red rose on both sides.

There was a soft, polite chuckle that was almost silent, paired with a look between the two woman that offered their aid. "Please, I do not mean to takeover at all. I'm certain that those here are more than capable to do what we need done. It will do good to see so many of us from so many different places and backgrounds." And then at Lou's suggestion, he nodded with another smile. "And you've kept those gifts hidden from us all this time, hmm? Some traveling companion..." A playful smile was given to the princess.

Aiden crans his head toward Rosalie, "Reeeeallly? Do you know which smith?" He gears his horse toward her to ride closer, "If I had a working relationship with one of the--" did he just seen a plushie? No, must have been seeing things, ahem, "--Metallics then surely I would go straight to them. I didn't realize Brass was taking visitors. Hmm. Very interesting. Where does one find Brass?" The Duke asks of Rosalie. The current plan, well, he'll get back to that, or follow the others, either way, his interest is peaked at something totally not related to what they're doing here.

Cadern looks amused at the discussion of the flying things and seems content to let the otehrs lead in terms of the diplomats. He looks amused at Aiden, "Later...sort out the flying creatures later." He teases and he smiles looking thoughtful about the rest and he smirks, "I don't think you find Brass so much as he finds you if he wants to... But Laric's Salamander can probably find him or there's a few priests and the like that seem associated with him."

"One of the smiths is apprenticed to Brass," Lou notes, offering Rosalie a bit of a smile. She doesn't say which smith though, just that she knows of one that is. She raises both brows to Gaspar, "I didn't think you'd look good in a purple, flowery seasilk dress. . . ." This is delivered with a bit of a smirk. She might have other stuff, but this is what she lists! She looks back to Aiden. "One can message Brass. He usually stays with the Faith when he's in town, I believe. Though he travels in and out of the city, I'm told." She furrows her brow. "We really need to talk to him about powering the bridge we found that still works in Whitepeak. . . . takes you to Arx in minutes. . . " She pauses, "Any other thoughts on my suggestion on how to approach the village?" They are likely nearly there by now, but she's still paused in riding as she waits to hear from the others. If no one else has suggestions, she'll nudge her horse forward again to approach the village as suggested.

Lisebet listens to the banter quietly, but there's a gentle smile on her face as she does so. She glances from speaker to speaker. Her ridcing won't win any contests, certainly. "I think it seems a reasonable approach, Lou. I can call out if you like?" She offers her own voice, since she usually has no trouble projecting as she speaks or sings.

Mikani nods to Lou, "I think that is a great way to do it." She nudges her horse forward to follow Lou's plan. She gets up to the village but stays a respectful distance away.

Aiden gives an exasperated look to Cadern, "Later may never happen friend. Now. Now. Now is what we have and my mind is currently intrigued. You know what happens when I'm intrigued. I am usually up all night until the sun comes up." He gestures with a hand, "Then I'm very displeased he's never come to see me. I could have used his help with the mews." He sighs with an exceptional breath, then perks up, "Not too late I suppose for that." He's plotting over other things. "I will definitely try to message Brass. I didn't know that was... possible!" He grins to Archibald, "I know I know. Heads in the clouds too much, right?" He nudges his mare forward following the others, hauling the reins in when they stop, Archibald still roosting on his forearm, looking toward Mikani, "Do we hollar or sing out? Perhaps they'd like a whistle?"

Gaspar half-mumbled, so that those around could hear and mostly toward Lou, "Well, that's because you haven't /seen/ me in a purple, flowery seasilk dress..." He grinned, but kept his gaze straight ahead while he rode on near Lou, Lisebet and Rosalie.

"Wait, you have a purple dress too?" Aiden says as an aside to Gaspar, perhaps playfully, perhaps not. The grin on his face would suggest the former.

"Oh! I cannot recall which one at the moment. I am terribly sorry but perhaps I will remember later, or on the trip back," Rosalie responds with wide-eyed startlement at having hte Duke-Consort suddenly at her side. She blinks owlishly, then looks in relief towards Lou and nods, "I thought as much. I remember one of them wanting to, I just cannot for the life of me remember which one. But it is good to know I -am- recalling correctly." She pauses, then adds, "I can add a few presents to the pot as well, if it comes to that. I have a few things in my bags..." She keeps her focus on the Princess and smiles, "I have no suggestions to offer, the plan is sound and based in good diplomatic reasoning." She nods to Aiden, "Most people can have messengers delivered. Even the Marin'alfar can accept messengers despite having no written tongue of their own. THey can even respond. Its simply a matter of if the person receiving the message wishes to respond, and the logistics of getting it sent out."

You have ridden to within reasonable hailing distance of the shav village. The day is hot and sticky, to the point where even the Lycenes of your party are likely to feel uncomfortable in armor, leathers, or heavier fabrics. The village is surrounded by a wooden wall that stands about twenty feet high with sharpened points at the very top that would make one think twice about scaling them with a ladder. There is an open gate on the side which you approach, and you can see movement inside, though not much in the way of detail. There is a pair of guards at the gate, and movement along the top of the wall as well.

Mikani looks at Lisebet, "I think calling out would be best. A whistle can be lost in the wind." She says taking charge hoping she isn't stepping on toes.

Lou gets delicate seasilk butterfly slippers from Rugged Backpack with Quick Release Straps.

Lou gets a seasilk summer butterfly gown from Rugged Backpack with Quick Release Straps.

Cadern blinks at Lou, "One of the Whitepeak travel bridges still work? Do we know where it goes though?" He asks with worry but then he shifts as they focus in. He smiles broadly at the guards as they approach. He seems content to let others take the lead and seems he grins, "A whistle and a wave are both typically generally pleasant ways of greetings." He suggests. "Well I bet they've seen us coming. Would hate to try and sneak over that wall." He admits though he gives Aiden an amused look at the rush.

Lisebet moves her horse forward a bit, hoping that nothing happens to scare the placid animal. She takes a breath, and then she calls out, it being perhaps noticeable that she is trained in performing arts, at least somewhat. "Hello the village!" she calls out, in Arvani. Her tone is friendly, her voice loud enough to be heard, but not commanding or trying to intimidate. "We mean no harm - is there someone we could speak with?"

Lou eyes Gaspar, then pulls her backpack from the back of her saddle ties, and pulls it into her lap. "We could change that, you know...." she grins toothily at him, pulling out the dress and slippers, and giving him a look that's almost challenging. She seems to be in a good mood. Cheeky, but good mood. But, that always happens when she's off, away from the city. Certainly even more so when it's an issue that's /not/ life or death but something she enjoys pursuing, instead. She waits just a moment for his answer before she nudges her horse forward again, riding up within hailing distance of the village as suggested. She glances over in Cadern's direction, nodding. "It had just enough power to last for 5 minutes, so we were able to transport the items we needed back in Arx before going back to Whitepeak to gather our animals and supplies and go back the long way." She looks over to Lisebet. "If you don't mind, whatever way you feel most appropriate in hailing them?" And then, of course, Lisebet is doing just so, and she looks to the wall, perhaps holding her breath a bit as she does.

Lisebet checked luck at difficulty 15, rolling 9 lower.

The prince wore a smile that was surely all but impossible to see at this distance, but his posture, while poised and precise, as just as welcome and inviting as well. It was a very practiced thing, especially having to do so in a saddle. He waited after Lisebet's call for any sign of acknowledgement from the village. Then again, at Lou's remark, he cut his gaze to the side and eyed her for a lingering, surmising moment. "For you, your highness, anything."

"I can probably guess, but guessing would be -rude- ..." Aiden mentions to Rosalie and Lou in regards to the smith, "I would /hope/ to have it be a particular individual that I need to see, and gods, it's been an awful while, but yes. I would hope an old friend to be /that/ smith, because it would just make a wonderful story." He sits up straighter, fixes his PURPLE shirt, not to be a characteristic Lycene, but he was wearing purple. "Indeed. Indeed. A message I can send then, later, later, when this all is -" he gestures with a hand, "dealt with." His eyes look up at the fortifications, "Mm. They aren't planning to leave anytime soon." He side glances at Cadern, "You wouldn't. You'd try to barriage the gate down. Or fire the walls, or perhaps, blast something at them. If you were to scale them, then hmm... well, a specific ladder would be required I think, to get over the spikes. But, that's difficult if they're firing arrows and throwing buckets of tar at us... in the meantime." He's gone into his military mind, blinking a bit, as Lisabet takes the lead and thus he quiets himself to watch.

At Lisebeth's friendly greeting the two guards at the door level their spears and a pair of archers appear above them on the wall. One of the guards shouts something back at the group. It sounds like it could be a command, or maybe an order.

Rosalie checked intellect + linguistics at difficulty 30, rolling 35 higher.

Mikani checked intellect + linguistics at difficulty 15, rolling 45 higher.

Cadern checked intellect + linguistics at difficulty 25, rolling 26 higher.

Lou checked intellect + linguistics at difficulty 20, rolling 2 higher.

Lisebet checked intellect + linguistics at difficulty 25, rolling 14 higher.

Gaspar checked intellect + linguistics at difficulty 30, rolling 22 lower.

Mikani has joined the line.

Lisebet has joined the line.

Mikani holds up her hands after she secures her reins. "We have come to speak of a language called Uanna. We are here as peaceful knowledge seekers." She says in her usual warm tone with a smile on her face.

Mikani checked charm + diplomacy at difficulty 30, rolling 7 lower.

The guard seems unimpressed by this declaration, his eyes scanning to see who might speak next.

Lisebet pauses, at the words, frowning. She doesn't really understand what is said, but she does say, in a more reasonable tone, to be heard first only by her friends here. "I somehow don't think he offered for us to come in and have tea," she says dryly. She's not moving, staying right exactly where she is, still. More or less. She calls back out, though still in Arvani. She centers herself, and then calls out, projecting so as to be heard by the guards. "We come in peace seeking knowledge." A glance to Mikani and a smile as she tries to keep things on an even keel.

Lisebet pauses for a moment, and then she says, "Please can one of you come talk to us. We promise we mean no harm."

Lou remarks as an aside to Lisette, "Let them know we have gifts too."

Lisebet pauses for a moment, and then she says, "Please can one of you come talk to us. We promise we mean no harm. And we bring a gift for you."

Aiden has joined the line.

Lisebet checked charm + diplomacy at difficulty 30, rolling 25 higher.

Cadern stays where he is as the guards challenge. "He considers the group and he glances to Lou and nods, "Taht exactly. Bribery always helps defuse sitautions." He says agreeably continuing to smile easily his hands open and doing his best to exude calm. He does glance to the others, "For those who might not have made it out, "They want us to stay where we are and are asking our business."

The guard's eyes narrow a bit when Lisebet speaks, making it likely that he understood despite speaking Arvani to him. He plants the butt of his spear on the ground, holds up his hand palm out in a 'wait here' sort of gesture, then sends the other guard inside. The archers keep their arrows nocked and ready.

The line has been dismissed by Zoey.

Aiden looks between the two who have taken responsibility for their greeting by stepping forward, his expression netural, while he hears some of what is being offered. Gently he strokes the back of the gryfalcon's chest feathers, hearing Cadern's translation which he offers, "Thank you for that. It sounded like ... well, even the grunting of bears I understand better." He tilts his head some, about to push his mount forward when one of the guards disappears and thusly, remains where he is. "I would stay away from indicating titles. We don't want to seem as if we are hear on a mission to scout their fortifications... because I know if this was on Gemecitta land, I'd be concerned. A tad. A tad."

The prince held on to that easy smile and showed not the least bit of rattling at the gestures and movement inside the village. No, he was deep in study, watching any and everything to pick up clues as to who these people were and how they operated.

Lou gets a solid gold arrow pin from Rugged Backpack with Quick Release Straps.

Lou gets silver catseye steel blade from Rugged Backpack with Quick Release Straps.

Rosalie takes dawn-touched frost kissing a silvery ironwool skein of scales enfolding an azurine halter dress from a cross body-strapped soft black leather satchel.

Lou watches as the guards move about their fortified enclave. She smiles at the archers and waves at them, then glances down and rummages through her backpack again. "Oh! I forgot I brought some of Lottie's stuff with us!" she exclaims. She digs around some more, and then pulls out a pin. She gives it a forlorn look, but sets it atop the dress set. She also pulls out a silver catseye steel blade, though it is sheathed and peace-bonded do it would not be easy to draw it, and sets it with the rest. Everything she's brought as gifts is out in the open. She also pulls out the sweet delectibles which were carefully packaged.

Rosalie takes soft white socks from a cross body-strapped soft black leather satchel.

Lou gets Almond and Raspberry Jam Cookie from Rugged Backpack with Quick Release Straps.

Rosalie takes an unbelievably soft cashmere scarf dyed black and shot through with violet from a cross body-strapped soft black leather satchel.

Lou gets Spiced Cherry Pie from Rugged Backpack with Quick Release Straps.

Lou gets Blackberry Spice Cake from Rugged Backpack with Quick Release Straps.

Rosalie takes Bump in the Night from a cross body-strapped soft black leather satchel.

Rosalie takes Drowning in the Deeps from a cross body-strapped soft black leather satchel.

Mikani takes a brown wooden pot of healing salve from Black Leather Holster Hip Bag with Crimson Accents.

Aiden smells something - was that pie?! Cake?! No way, Lottie's goodies! He watches with woeful amusement at the items that are likely to be offered to the shavs.

It takes a few minutes, but the second guard returns with another. She stands a head shorter than either guard, but holds her head at a proud angle that gives the impression of stature that measures beyond mere hight. Her black hair is shot through with iron gray, and he early formations of wrinkles indicating late-middle age crease her features. Her clothing is simple but well-made, likely the best that so remote an area is able to produce on its own, and around her neck is a pendant made of beaten gold.

"My name is Ashina," she says with the slow deliberation of one with academic knowledge of a language, but uses it infrequently. "I speak on behalf of the Elder Council. Who will speak on your behalf?"

Mikani puts a brown wooden pot of healing salve in Black Leather Holster Hip Bag with Crimson Accents.

Rosalie takes a tiny glass latch lidded jar hanging off a charm inscribed with waves from a cross body-strapped soft black leather satchel.

Jam cookies too, Aiden. /Raspberry/ jam cookies! They are all treasures that Lou has found ways and means to keep tucked safe. She looks over at Lisebet when the guard comes out and introduces herself. "You did a good job introducing us, I nominate you to speak for us, Lisebet. I'm bad at diplomacy." She has no skill at it. She also makes sure not to us any titles here. She glances to the others, "Unless either of you wish to?" she looks between Gaspar and Aiden. "You live in this general region." In spite of being bad at diplomacy, Lou does at least have some empathy training, so she makes herself look as non-threatening as possible and gives Ashina a bright smile, refraining from waving.

Aiden casually side eyes to Gaspar, as if expecting the Prince to take charge considering his title among the group. Though he says nothing otherwise, to indicate his thoughts on the matter, shifting in the saddle to arch an eyebrow at Lou. JAM COOKIES. Nooo not the JAM COOKIES. His smile widens as he nods to Lou, "I defer to Gaspar on this. I am a good assistant in these things though, just not the best. Birds I'm better with."

He sat up just a little straighter in the saddle. "I'm one of many voices--" He gestured to those around him, "--that come searching for knowledge that we hope you hold. I am Prince Gaspar Velenosa. These are friends and companions from across the lands. It is our distinct privilege to make your acquaintance, Ashina." Short and succinct, for now.

Rosalie begins to pull items from her bags as Lou does, retriieving a number of items, though none of the Lottie's. Hers are, as she said, trinkets.. and a few bottles of liquor and one very lovely dress in that new ironwool fashion. She keeps them at the ready to be handed over but otherwise sits quietly on her horse and just offers a peaceful smile and serene demeanor. Not terribly hard for the young Godsworn. Questions of who will speak have her glancing between Gaspar and Lisebet. Passing that buck right along.

Cadern smirks at Aiden, "You should spend less time with animals, and more with people." He teases and then watches as a new person arrives. He smiles warmly at the new arrival but continues to be content to watch and make mental notes studying thenew arrival, the items being brought out that draw a smile and he seems content to let the prince speak looking intrigued to see how the response comes.

Lisebet glances at Aidan, and then over at Gaspar. She dismounts from her horse, her mount so very docile as to not go anywhere. She raises her hands, both empty, and keeps them very easily visible. "Good day, Ashina," she says. "I am Lisebet, and this is Gaspar." Alright then, this seems a good pair of them to work together, right? She gives Gaspar a sort of smile, as he goes forth with titles and all. "Thank you for coming out to speak with us. We very much appreciate your grace and kindness."

Aiden levels a look at Cadern, "Birds have never--" though when Gaspar drops a title in there, his attention shifts to the Shav folk, to see how they respond to it. His eyes follow Lisebet when she approaches, his free hand settling back on his thigh rather than on the cantle of his saddle - much easier to respond to a threat this way right. "Birds have never treated me ill," he finishes saying to Cadern in a lower voice not to interrupt the speakers, "Though I have put in tremendous effort lately to spend time with people. Look at me right now? Counts, doesn't it?"

Lou considers as an side to Rosalie, who took up her idea of passing out trinkets and gifts, "Of course, I could also always pass along my knowledge of the Sylv'alfar language in trade, or maybe Eurusi, for pointers in Uanna. . . . " She considers that, giving Ashina a considering look. "The Eurusi might be more beneficial, given all the refugees that have passed through this way." It's more that Lou is speculating than making any real offers, but it's out on the table for Lisebet and Gaspar to use as bargaining chips, and for Ashina to overhear on 'accident' since Lou's not being very quiet in her conversation with Rosalie as she lets the diplomats diplomat.

Ashina nods to Gaspar and Lisebet, unblinking, not smiling. "You come from the Compact," she says. "I was a young girl the last time your people sent anyone to our village. What is it that you want from us, and what do you offer in return?"

Nodding towards Lou, Rosalie murmurs, "I had considered that as well. Trading knowledge for knowledge. I am certain there is much that could be learned on both sides. Its one of the reasons I came along, to represent both Faith and Scholars in this peaceful envoy seeking new knowledge. And offering it in turn." While her tones are respectful and quiet, they are far from whispering.

"Knowledge. That is all that we ask of you. That which you already have and is given without difficult. As for what it is we offer in return, potentially a great deal, depending on what it is exactly that you and your people need or want. We are here to learn of a people, a land, and, more directly, the language of them. Uanna. We have been told you may know much about it." Gaspar glanced over toe Lisebet as though it was her turn to continue and this was simply a practiced routine.

Lisebet checked perception + linguistics at difficulty 20, rolling 51 higher.

Gaspar checked perception + linguistics at difficulty 20, rolling 1 higher.

Lisebet inclines her head briefly, nodding to Gaspar. "We have some small gifts of friendship," she says. "If you would accept such. And as Gaspar says," - she's not using titles, even if he did. - "we are hoping to learn of Uanna, to discover about their history and language." Her gaze does take in Ashina's dress, and her necklace. it's perhaps a symbol of authority maybe? "Your necklace is beautiful. The symbols seem somewhat familiar to me. We are hoping to learn to translate and understand what we have found."

Lisebet looks to the others with the gifts. She leaves that bit over to them.

Ashina's tanned but smooth hand reaches up to touch the pendant around her neck. "You are here for the ruins then?"she asks. She looks at each member of the party, considering. "Leave your horses and bind your weapons, and you may all come inside to speak."

Lou pssts from behind Lisebet. "We know a bit about about their history. Cardia destroyed Uanna, after they offered a peaceful setting where many of the nations could talk together." There's a pause though when Lisebet speaks about Ashina's necklace though and her eyes light up. Is it the same language as the cuneiform she's seen. "Something of the like," she calls out from behind. I'm Lou." Her weapons are largely already peacebonded. She dismounts her horse and gathers the gifts she offers. "Leader of the Society of Explorers. We went on a journey to rediscover the mythical city of Whitepeak, and well, found it. There was a whole district dedicated to the Uanna there, though we've yet to completely explore it, and we found an interesting cuneiform plaque attached to one of the great library pillars there that we're working to get translated."

Aiden dismounts when they're invited inside, after releasing Archibald to the skies. "Keep an eye out for us," he murmurs to the gyrfalcon before he leaves his bow with his saddle and binds the dagger on his belt.

Mikani pats Cookie and gives the mare some good carrots and loving before she follows the others. Her weapons are peacefully in her holster and tied away from view. In her hands she holds a container of healing salve to give as a gift.

Rosalie is swift to dismount as well, glad to be back on her feet. She carefull takes the dagger from her hip and tucks it into a saddlebag to be left with the horse. No other weapons. She tucks most of the items away that were brought with her, but offers the dress to Ashina and murmurs, "A token of appreciation for your hospitality. It was crafted by one of our most well-known tailors and would fetch a high price at any market, if you do not wish to keep it." She offers a soft smile and steps back to stay nearer to Lou.

Cadern seems content to wire wrap his dagger and happily gets off the horse, "I should thank them for getting them off of horse." He says to the group or perhaps to Aiden. He smiles as he pats the beast but he glances to Ashina and the necklace as Lisebet draws attention to it. "Ruins..." He says excitedly and he grins, "Well that seems like something we're going to upset people by poking around in." He does shift to get a better view of the necklace but otherwise seems fascinated and happy to be along.

Lisebet grins at Lou, shrugging a bit. She makes eure her docile placid mare is okay with the rest, and then she moves forward to stand by Ashina. "I am quite curious about the ruins," she adds, since that seems like a very good spot to go visit, for the society of explorers and friends. Cadern gets a chuckle, and then Lisebet turns to Ashina. "Thank you for offering your hospitality. We would be pleased to visit with you." But she's only talking, letting the others make their own decisions. She could remain with the horses, but - it likely wouldn't do any good should any issues arise. Lisebet has no weapon and is a terrible fighter. She can however scream well.

Gaspar swung himself out of the saddle as well and let those around offer gifts and make nice with Ashina. He, like Lisebet, had no weapons to speak of and he bowed his head respectfully. "Thank you for your welcome. We've traveled a long way and look forward to the chance to sit, talk and learn." He made a motion with his hand in the direction of their village.

Ashina takes the gown from Rosalie, running her fingers over the fine fabric. Her eyes widen in childlike awe while the rest of her face remains stony and neutral. Lou's enthusiasm does cause a creasing around her eyes and a tug at the corners of her mouth that threaten to become a smile. With a gesture of her empty hand she invites Lisebet and Gaspar to walk with her while the others fall in behind.

"You are right that some might be upset," she says in reply to Cadern. "They are long dead, but their wrath remains behind. Come and eat, and we will talk."

Lou checked perception + investigation at difficulty 30, rolling 50 higher.

Aiden checked intellect + investigation at difficulty 30, rolling 14 higher.

Lisebet checked wits + investigation at difficulty 30, rolling 30 higher. Lisebet rolled a critical!

Gaspar checked perception + investigation at difficulty 30, rolling 14 lower.

Mikani checked intellect + investigation at difficulty 30, rolling 43 higher.

Rosalie checked perception + investigation at difficulty 30, rolling 10 higher.

Aiden follows near to the back, since he has nothing to add to Ashina presently, as if he's trying to observe everything. He's been known in the past to take historical documentation of rituals and write books about grand mystical beasts... so he's no doubt making some inner transcript of the events.

Cadern checked perception + investigation at difficulty 30, rolling 24 higher.

Mikani steps forward and silently holds out her healing salve for Ashina to take. "Healing salve. I'm sure you have shaman or healers about, yet there is always good to have extra healing things around." Mikani says warmly.

Lou is a consummate enthusiast when it comes to anything to do with exploration. However, Ashina's comments give her pause. "Wrath? The Uanna were a peaceful people. . . " Confusion is clear in her voice. Yeah, sure, getting destroyed by the Cardians can really cause a wrinkle. She furrows her brow even further. "Is, well. . . , do you think they might be helped by Deathspeakers? Those that can see spirits and put them to rest?" she asks, clearly curious on this topic. "Because I may know a few people we can send. . . to help." She easily falls in behind Ashina, Lisebet and Gaspar, giving the others in their party equally curious looks.

Cadern glances to Mikani and he smiles, "That's why you are here." He offers warmly as he considers Ashina's response to the gifts, "Women like gowns in any cultures." He says wryly and he glances to Ashina nad he nods, "Few things remain untouched if they don't have...some sort of guardianship. But often that protection is for a reason." He smiles warmly, "In the northern forests you learn quickly growing up to treat such things with respect, they almost always had something to teach us, but they were protected for a reason, protection for us and from us. Ancestors were careful guardians of knowledge, we should hope to be half as good."

Aiden drifts to one of the buildings they pass by, his hand running over some of the stone, inspecting it with a curious flick of finger. When he meanders back to the group, he's studying the buildings with a further interest. He's lost on the conversation by now.

Mikani laughs softly at Cadern's comment as her eyes move over the buildings. The cuneform on the blocks make her want to meander closer. As they stop she does move closer to the buildings she can to take a look. "These blocks are very interesting. Do you know where they came from?" She asks.

"The systematic destruction of your home and family might make you wrathful as well, Pathfinder. You cannot say that because they were peaceful prior to the destruction of Uanna that they would remain that way after... it takes.. a lot.. to forgive those that have taken everything from you," Rosalie speaks with the heaviness of experience in her voice as she glances towards Lou. Lifting a small shrug, she offers, "It would not be unexpected for survivors to grow wrathful and vengeful in the intervening years." She looks to Ashina and smiles softly, "We will certainly be glad to try and help calm those that remain, if possible. May I ask.. do you have someone in the tribe that is versed in metalworking? Your pendants are beautiful.. would it be possible to trade for one?"

Lisebet listens quietly and nods. She glances at some children playing nearby, watching their play happily. It reminds her of her own little ones back home. She nods, as she listens, glancing here and there, thoughtfully. "I enjoy making new friends and exploring," she admits. She makes a mental note to find some toys and send them here, when and if she has opportunity. Somehow. "Also eating and dancing. This is a beautiful place. I can see why anyone would love the spot. Although warmer and a different climate, it still somehow reminds me of home."

"They were, yes, but our neighbors were not," Ashina says to Lou as the group walks through the village. "When Uanna was no more they became fearful and angry. Their city began to crumble and the wilds crept in. They made puzzles and traps to protect what was left, but one day they left and never returned."

She guides you through a city of humble buildings made of a mix of stone, wood, and various dried plants indigenous to the area. The people of the town seem to be going about their daily business, though many eye you with suspicion and give you a wide berth.

Ashina nods to Mikani. "The quarry is far away, so when we had to rebuild after storms we would brave the wilds to bring back stone," she answers. When Rosalie asks her question she replies, "There is plenty in the ruins. You may keep what you can find and cary out. If you would like, we can hammer it into a new shape for you."

The bit about survivors catches Lou off guard a bit, and she seems to take notice of the people around her a bit more consideringly. "No one survived that attack, Rosalie. The dragons saw to it. The whole nation is now the Suthryn Wastes, with Forasio lying beyond, and then Cardia. The three are all on the same continent," her words are softly spoken, but then her eyes fall on Ashina and there's a dawning or a realization of sorts. Perhaps. Maybe. Maybe there were survivors. She swallows and nods a bit, then remarks gently, some of her empathy showing through. "You have such beautiful pendants. The writing on them is very much like the cuneiform we found in Whitepeak." Could this tribe be surviving members of the Uanna? Yes, yes, she heard the words that Ashina spoke, but still, the look, the expression, she gives to the others seems to somehow convey this is what she's thinking, as well as her remarks about the cuneiform.

With the rest of the party in deep enough conversation with Ashina and each other, Gaspar looked between the gathered and stayed in relative silence there, until the very end. "Are there texts? Anyone you have with the ability to perhaps translate some of it into our native tongue?" He leaned in to her, just a little bit with a simple smile. Yes, the pendant. That was something wholly unique. "Are you farmers, Ashina? Herders?"

"Puzzles and traps," Aiden reiterates with an amusement showing through, "Splendid. Where is Sparte? He's the best puzzle solver I know." He looks back and sighs at the general lack of having a Sparte with him, "Not here. Should we assume going down into this ruins, is going to be frought with peril? Shall we ask for a guide? Hmm?" He looks a little pained at the talk of what the dragons did, "They didn't survive, but those who died, have been born a new. They still remember." His hand goes onto his chest, he pauses, then, he snaps his fingers, "The stone. They've repurposed it. Good. Sometimes, that's what we must do of the past to remake our present, so that we may live for a better future. Cities grow ontop of old ones. Hmm." He bursts forward a question to Ashina, "Were there other people that came here, that flew on creatures that looked like half bird, half cats? Great tremendous creatures with feathers as long as a man's arm? Perhaps they left something behind?" Why not, it was worth a try. "Starfall was built within Uanna's protection. Perhaps there is something left? Perhaps your people know of the skylancers?"

Mikani is overheard praising Zoey.

Lisebet glances over at Lou, thoughtfully. "Perhaps they had outposts, or explorers like us, out and about, and not at home," she offers lightly. She quiets to listen to the rest of the conversation.

Lisebet is overheard praising Zoey.

Mikani is overheard praising Zoey.

Mikani is overheard praising Zoey.

Lou gently punches Aiden in the shoulder. "Hey! What am I

Rosalie looks back to Lou and lifts a brow, "And my entire House was destroyed by Donrai Thrax, yet here I stand. Sometimes the only way to survive is to not be there when the fight happens. We were a much more open country once. We had visitors from many other nations. Why would those from Uanna not come here, too? Like as not, there are people here now with intermingled blood from Uanna as there are with nearly every other nation that exists." She smiles to Ashina and nods, "My thanks, I would very much appreciate that if we find anything." And to Aiden, she giggles softly, "Sparte was my tutor in puzzles and riddles.. then I surpassed what he could teach. Now we are on par and I should really remember to send him a riddle when we return.."

Ashina shakes her head at Aidens question. "I know not of what you speak," she says sadly. "And their tongue has long been lost to us as well. We know a few symbols, and wear them for luck and protection. Come. Have dinner with us. Fruit, bread, and tail of the alligator. Tomorrow we will send you to the ruins with a guide. There is still much knowledge to be found in the ruins, for those who seek."

Lou gently punches Aiden in the shoulder. "Hey! What am I?" she hrmphs softly. "I can figure out puzzles too." She's pretty darn good at it. Not great, but good! But then she's grinning at Aiden. "Always with your head in the clouds, thinking of griffons," she winks at her cousin, then looks back to Ashina and the rest. She nods to Lisebet. "Or had people here that didn't go to the meeting, yeah." She casts furtive glances at the villagers as part of her meaning. But then Ashina dashes her hopes, and she nods quietly. She shares around the goodies from Lotties: raspberry jam cookies, spiced cale, and spiced cherry pie!

Aiden ouches playfully at Lou's punch to the shoulder, "Heyyy-- Owww... !" He smirks, "Well you're generally good at well, everything. I mean, I suppose Sparte is too." Aiden rubs his shoulder a bit, "I just know he tried to teach me riddles once. It was wildly amusing, for him." He notes, "I haven't had the opportunity to see you riddle me this in action! Every grand adventure you've had, that requires solving puzzles, I've missed, haven't I?" He side glances to Rosalie again, "You know, you're a very interesting person. Can we be friends? I mean, really friends. Do you like tea?" He peers back to Ashina and he shrugs his shoulders, "Worth a try. Thank you Ashina. I'm starved - but I'll pass on the alligator. Bread and fruit, that I can do." He beams at Lou, "Naturally. Every opportunity. You never know where a solution might find you, or you, it!"

Mikani is overheard praising Lou.

Lisebet is overheard praising Lou.