ROLEPLAY HQ - moon-and-the-mountain

The winds were calm on the gallow sea. The air was crisp as the winds howled through the rocky shores of Jotafjord. With the clouds blanketing the afternoon and the smell of the cold briny sea air mix with the aroma of wet sand. The people were going about their day, carrying baskets and hauling carriages. At the docks were creaking and cranking as the boats were resting on the calm shores. The fishermen threw their nets out into the open blue waters, the dogs ran around chasing and knawing at each other, and the sound of a zip went down every time the brush scrubbed off the dirt of the leather they were designing for clothing. “Mother, I wish ask” “You may” “Why must we build connections with outsiders, they only bring corruption” “In order to prevent corruption we must see it from a distance before it sails close” “But we are of the tribes, we have purged the corruption before” “We have, but many of our own from your father’s side have died in the expansion. We must prevent so from happening” Iskar scoffed at the idea. For he was trained in the mountains by the Te’kah. But he could never swear into the oath for he was the son of the high priestess. And apparently that was a higher duty than to fight for the spirits. His father had trained him to the highest degree to prioritize the coming of the storm, to fight it, to keep it from their lands again. Yet now he must consort to royalty like his mother’s ancestors did before. @SumiLumia

"Adi'ola come here!" The reigning queen of the River Kingdom of Kaali called out to her daughter. She'd refused to come to her mother's call several times, but a tone like that was beyond her ability to ignore. She sighed heavily and made her way into the throne room, dragging her bare feet every step of the way. The stern look on her mother's face faded instantly upon her entrance. "Ahh my sweet darling, you look beautiful. Like a queen. You are ready." Blue was the color of their people, but for ceremonies, everyone wore the most honorable red, accented with golds if the celebration was for a royal. The dress Adi'ola found herself in was heavy and adorned with more jewels then she even thought her family owned. She didn't feel like herself. She didn't want to be here or do this. Her path was never supposed to end with taking the crown. "I do not want to do this, mother..." "I know my child..." Her mother hadn't had more to say about it in weeks. There was no other choice. "When will he and his family arrive?" "In the morning...so...enjoy tonight in whatever way you see fit. Tomorrow, your life changes forever."

7:30 AM

@Who is Who?

SumiLumia

"Adi'ola come here!" The reigning queen of the River Kingdom of Kaali called out to her daughter. She'd refused to come to her mother's call several times, but a tone like that was beyond her ability to ignore. She sighed heavily and made her way into the throne room, dragging her bare feet every step of the way. The stern look on her mother's face faded instantly upon her entrance. "Ahh my sweet darling, you look beautiful. Like a queen. You are ready." Blue was the color of their people, but for ceremonies, everyone wore the most honorable red, accented with golds if the celebration was for a royal. The dress Adi'ola found herself in was heavy and adorned with more jewels then she even thought her family owned. She didn't feel like herself. She didn't want to be here or do this. Her path was never supposed to end with taking the crown. "I do not want to do this, mother..." "I know my child..." Her mother hadn't had more to say about it in weeks. There was no other choice. "When will he and his family arrive?" "In the morning...so...enjoy tonight in whatever way you see fit. Tomorrow, your life changes forever."

As they were standing, in the gales of the ocean a few villagers noticed in the distance a massive murder of crows were flying around the sea. And upon closer inspection they noticed what looked like longships. 3 of them out in the distance.

The following morning, Adi'ola waited from the a front balcony of her family's castle with her mother and father by her side. She thought they might physically lock arms around her if she tried to run at this point, but she had no plans to. As much as she did not want this duty, it was her to bear, and she would. They watched from their perch as their kingdom's ships met in the ocean with those of the nation they were soon to form alliance with. They couldn't see any people nor could they ascertain what the exchange was like, but eventually, their boats started to return, green flag waving and indicating that their guests were onboard and headed back to shore. "It's really happening." Adi'ola swallowed hard and straightened the top layer of her pristinely pressed dress. "You will make a great queen." Her father mumbled before gesturing for them all to go down to greet their guests in the throne room.

4:22 PM

@Who is Who?

SumiLumia

The following morning, Adi'ola waited from the a front balcony of her family's castle with her mother and father by her side. She thought they might physically lock arms around her if she tried to run at this point, but she had no plans to. As much as she did not want this duty, it was her to bear, and she would. They watched from their perch as their kingdom's ships met in the ocean with those of the nation they were soon to form alliance with. They couldn't see any people nor could they ascertain what the exchange was like, but eventually, their boats started to return, green flag waving and indicating that their guests were onboard and headed back to shore. "It's really happening." Adi'ola swallowed hard and straightened the top layer of her pristinely pressed dress. "You will make a great queen." Her father mumbled before gesturing for them all to go down to greet their guests in the throne room.

Slowly the ships rowed their way onto the docks. And from their perspective, these boats had flags that beared not symobls or flags, but runes, different kinds of runes. Getting off they saw those of different clothing, one of mongolian culture, one native american, and one that was Celtic. Stepping off the ship she was met with a woman wearing what seemed to be knitted and a patterned set of robes in blue and red. And next to her was a man who was in full body armor. And between them was a boy, as tall as the man in armor but was standing with a cold hard stare. He could already sense the kind of atmosphere the kingdom gave off, and he did not like it. His father had warned him of outsiders. For they knew not hte ways of the earth. "Hello" Said his mother "We have recieved word of you wishing to bring our nations together"

"Welcome to our beautiful nation of Kaali. We are so grateful for your presence within our borders and your willingness to discuss the joining of our nations." Adi'ola's mother began, taking on her role as matriarch like she was born to it. "This is our daughter, Adi'ola. She will be taking the throne soon." She urged her daughter forward like a pageant mom more invested in winning than her child, and the younger woman stepped into place and bowed respectfully as she'd been threatened to do so earlier. "It is a pleasure to meet your family. We are honored to have you." She said, without any real positive emotion, without making eye contact with anyone at all.

4:43 PM

@Who is Who?

SumiLumia

"Welcome to our beautiful nation of Kaali. We are so grateful for your presence within our borders and your willingness to discuss the joining of our nations." Adi'ola's mother began, taking on her role as matriarch like she was born to it. "This is our daughter, Adi'ola. She will be taking the throne soon." She urged her daughter forward like a pageant mom more invested in winning than her child, and the younger woman stepped into place and bowed respectfully as she'd been threatened to do so earlier. "It is a pleasure to meet your family. We are honored to have you." She said, without any real positive emotion, without making eye contact with anyone at all.

The priestess nodded "Thank you, this is my son Iskar" Iskar nodded to them "And his father Bjorn" To which the father nodded to them as well. It looked to him like she hated this just as much. So why go through this? Why not just stay behind? He didn't think that this sort of thing was even necessary. "We have traveled far and we must admit, our people are quite...detatched from our ancestral roots of royalty" She said trying to cover up for her son's behavior.

"Iskar." Adi'ola said it out loud and then covered her mouth swiftly as her mother cleared her throat from being interrupted. Apparently her daughter didn't know how to be queen or even behave with common decency. "Your connection to your royal history matters not to the success of this union and is not a requirement at all. Please allow us to show you to your resting quarters until dinner this evening?" Adi'ola kept her eyes on the ground as her mother led this charge. She'd gotten a good look at Iskar already anyway and found him to be...handsome to say the least.

SumiLumia

"Iskar." Adi'ola said it out loud and then covered her mouth swiftly as her mother cleared her throat from being interrupted. Apparently her daughter didn't know how to be queen or even behave with common decency. "Your connection to your royal history matters not to the success of this union and is not a requirement at all. Please allow us to show you to your resting quarters until dinner this evening?" Adi'ola kept her eyes on the ground as her mother led this charge. She'd gotten a good look at Iskar already anyway and found him to be...handsome to say the least.

Iskar gave them both a hard stare as he was more silent of showing how much he “approved” of this marriage. He took a look at her, she had dark skin, with box braids. He has never seen someone with such foreign features. It was new to him, yet he found it…..attractive somehow. Like discovering a new sunset, though he refused to admit that. his mother has talked about kingdoms where these features are common. And that they could enter the astral plain naturally no practice needed. He wondered how they do that. His father nodded “I shall-“ “Attend with us” the priestess said cutting. Him off “Yes we would love to be shown our resting quarters

Adi'ola looked up in surprise when Iskar's mother seemed to cut his father off. Matriarchy was the way of her land of course, but she'd been taught that this did not represent the majority of the world. With all of the heavy and intimidating armor her suitor's father wore, she'd simply assumed he was the head of the family. "Please follow me." Her mother gestured and then stepped off, leading their guests up a long, spiraled staircase with water encapsulated and streaming down the banisters, accented by tiles of every shade of blue imaginable. The whole castle was covered in blues and whites and golds and the trickle of water could be heard from every corner. "And finally, this will be Iskar's room." Adi'ola's mother announced and pushed the door to his quarters. She hadn't realized it sooner, but this was her room as a child. She could remember countless nights staring up at the painted stars above her bed or leaning against one of the many window sills in the circular room, looking out upon the kingdom she loved so dearly. It twisted something strange in her gut to know that a stranger would be sleeping there tonight and she forced a smile onto her face before the frown could set in instead. "I hope you find everything to your liking? Dinner is at 6. Please take some time to get settled. Someone will come to retrieve you for the evening meal." (edited)

SumiLumia

Adi'ola looked up in surprise when Iskar's mother seemed to cut his father off. Matriarchy was the way of her land of course, but she'd been taught that this did not represent the majority of the world. With all of the heavy and intimidating armor her suitor's father wore, she'd simply assumed he was the head of the family. "Please follow me." Her mother gestured and then stepped off, leading their guests up a long, spiraled staircase with water encapsulated and streaming down the banisters, accented by tiles of every shade of blue imaginable. The whole castle was covered in blues and whites and golds and the trickle of water could be heard from every corner. "And finally, this will be Iskar's room." Adi'ola's mother announced and pushed the door to his quarters. She hadn't realized it sooner, but this was her room as a child. She could remember countless nights staring up at the painted stars above her bed or leaning against one of the many window sills in the circular room, looking out upon the kingdom she loved so dearly. It twisted something strange in her gut to know that a stranger would be sleeping there tonight and she forced a smile onto her face before the frown could set in instead. "I hope you find everything to your liking? Dinner is at 6. Please take some time to get settled. Someone will come to retrieve you for the evening meal." (edited)

As they were hiking up the staircase, his mother looked around in awe at the amazing sites of designs. It felt like she returned to a land she had always yearned for. The blue whites and golds were such a color of grace combined together. As thoigh divinity was all around them. And the trickles of water felt oh so satisfying to her as a final touch to her heart. His father was currently planning every escape route possible if need be, while his son was doing the same. Iskar himself did not fancy this sort of design, it was unnatural and was obviously made by man and not the earth. This was no mountain, these rocks and stone did not rest here as others do. They were molded, and forged too far. Do the people here disrespect their spirits this much? Were their spirits even around to witness this horror? He hoped not. For this was in a way a cruel fate. “Mother, I wish to camp with father” “I am sleeping in a room with your mother” “Then I will camp with the Te’kah” “We are in a foreign land. This is the custom” she said with a bit of a stern tone. To which Iskar’s jaw clenched. He hated being in small spaces like these. He was raised in the opposite environment, and now his mother wished for him to get along? To conceal himself in such a tight space? “Y-yes mother” He said marching in to examine the room. “We apologize for his behavior, he was raised with the morales of one of our tribes from home” said the mother “My tribe” said the father.

Adi'ola actually did let the frown grace her lips at Iskar's very apparent distaste in what was her second favorite room in this castle. She vowed to never show him her first because his reaction might pull something unbecoming of a queen out of her. "We respect and understand that being here may be quite an adjustment. The windows in this room swing out to allow the ocean's breeze in, and this side of the castle offers beautiful views of the distant mountains." "If this is unacceptable, something else can be arranged and we can have you settled after dinner." Her father tried to offer to mediate because he understood the ties both his wife and daughter had to this room.

SumiLumia

Adi'ola actually did let the frown grace her lips at Iskar's very apparent distaste in what was her second favorite room in this castle. She vowed to never show him her first because his reaction might pull something unbecoming of a queen out of her. "We respect and understand that being here may be quite an adjustment. The windows in this room swing out to allow the ocean's breeze in, and this side of the castle offers beautiful views of the distant mountains." "If this is unacceptable, something else can be arranged and we can have you settled after dinner." Her father tried to offer to mediate because he understood the ties both his wife and daughter had to this room.

“Oh no no no” said his mother “it’s quite alright this room is more than welcoming for us. Iskar will be able to sleep comfortably in here” “Yes…..I will” he said flat toned, looking around the room and observing all the windows and the ocean. At least there was no glass blocking his view. He then turned and noticed Adi’ola’s face of distaste. Seems as though she was plotting and attempt. As if she was going to want to kill him with that look. To which Iskar returned to her a stone glare. “You have mountains?” His father asked.

"Out in the distance." Adi'ola's father responded. "They are part of our land, but we do not mine them for resources or send our people out to bother the natives unless they request assistance. The mountains had been gifted to Kaali long ago, but the reigning queen did not see it necessary to rule the people who already lived on that land. Adi'ola would not either when her time came. "He can sleep in the dirt of in the gardens we've yet to renovate for all I care-." Adi'ola started only for her own mother to raise a hand and a stern brow to her. "You will show respect to our guests as they are doing us, Adi'ola. I'll not hear another ill word." The princess huffed and crossed her arms but the standoff between her and her mother only lasted a few seconds before she gave up and bowed her head. "I will go to the kitchens to check on preparations there." She mumbled and left the room as her mother turned to the mother of her suitor. "Please excuse my daughter's disposition. This is a very sudden change for her, and she is struggling a bit to adjust. She knows dedicated to this kingdom above all though. She will not continue to be a problem."

SumiLumia

"Out in the distance." Adi'ola's father responded. "They are part of our land, but we do not mine them for resources or send our people out to bother the natives unless they request assistance. The mountains had been gifted to Kaali long ago, but the reigning queen did not see it necessary to rule the people who already lived on that land. Adi'ola would not either when her time came. "He can sleep in the dirt of in the gardens we've yet to renovate for all I care-." Adi'ola started only for her own mother to raise a hand and a stern brow to her. "You will show respect to our guests as they are doing us, Adi'ola. I'll not hear another ill word." The princess huffed and crossed her arms but the standoff between her and her mother only lasted a few seconds before she gave up and bowed her head. "I will go to the kitchens to check on preparations there." She mumbled and left the room as her mother turned to the mother of her suitor. "Please excuse my daughter's disposition. This is a very sudden change for her, and she is struggling a bit to adjust. She knows dedicated to this kingdom above all though. She will not continue to be a problem."

His father nodded to the king. They leave the natives alone to their own, a very reassuring note that the natives were left to be. Although them saying nobody mines up there has left a feeling of odd differentiation. Back in the mountains, the Te’kah mine from the mountains to build their weapons and armor, perhaps the natives here are not attuned to warfare as he thought they would to be. Iskar’s ears perked up as he heard her say he could sleep in the dirt of the gardens. Then her mother said not to, all he could think to himself was “dammit” The high priestess chuckled “oh no it’s quite alright, my son has grown beside his father, they are both trained in a strict yet more free spirited manner. So his behavior is quite similar. Why, I remember when he was a little boy he tried to lift his great uncle’s war club with his tiny fingers, he ended up dragging it across the hut” Iskar stood to attention as his face became stone cold, a tactic he had learned to keep his face from showing emotion. As of right now she was blushing out of embarrassment.

"Adi'ola was similar in her childhood." The queen laughed as well, finding it easy to bond with another mother. "She was so determined to move the waves on our shores when at the time, she could only influence a few ounces of water. It always warmed me to see her little hands up in the air and her face so determined." And now Adi'ola could influence the waves in great quantities. Instead of having to focus on becoming queen for most of her life, she was able to hone her gift from their goddess to perfection. "In any case, does our family need anything else at the moment? Dinner will be served in just a few hours otherwise."

SumiLumia

"Adi'ola was similar in her childhood." The queen laughed as well, finding it easy to bond with another mother. "She was so determined to move the waves on our shores when at the time, she could only influence a few ounces of water. It always warmed me to see her little hands up in the air and her face so determined." And now Adi'ola could influence the waves in great quantities. Instead of having to focus on becoming queen for most of her life, she was able to hone her gift from their goddess to perfection. "In any case, does our family need anything else at the moment? Dinner will be served in just a few hours otherwise."

“Ohhhh my word, that sounds so sweet” his mother said at the story of her influencing water as a child. It practically made her heart melt. Iskar looked at Adi’ola l giving her the “yiur mom does that too?” Look. “Oh no no I think this is more than enough for the moment, it is quite refreshing to see such a design in real life” said the mother happily. “What do you cook?” The father and Iskar asked in unison as now they had the look of craving food on their faces.

Adi'ola scrunched her face up when Iskar looked her way, partially because he was looking at her at all and partially because her mother was embarrassing her. "Tonight shall be a great feast!" Her father chimed in with pride. He worked with the kitchen staff regularly on recipes and loved showing off his culinary knowledge. "Tonight we will serve a host of seasoned meats from wild bird to wild boar. There will also be a saltfish offering and many side dishes from rices and beans to mashed root vegetables and stewed greens. You will come away tonight well-fed and satisfied, it is my guarantee." Adi'ola smiled at her father's eagerness. The man was practically bouncing on his toes explaining some of the offerings for tonight. Her mouth had been watering all day from the delicious smells from the kitchen. And if they enjoyed dinner, they were really in for it with dessert.

SumiLumia

Adi'ola scrunched her face up when Iskar looked her way, partially because he was looking at her at all and partially because her mother was embarrassing her. "Tonight shall be a great feast!" Her father chimed in with pride. He worked with the kitchen staff regularly on recipes and loved showing off his culinary knowledge. "Tonight we will serve a host of seasoned meats from wild bird to wild boar. There will also be a saltfish offering and many side dishes from rices and beans to mashed root vegetables and stewed greens. You will come away tonight well-fed and satisfied, it is my guarantee." Adi'ola smiled at her father's eagerness. The man was practically bouncing on his toes explaining some of the offerings for tonight. Her mouth had been watering all day from the delicious smells from the kitchen. And if they enjoyed dinner, they were really in for it with dessert.

His father and Iskar have a blank stare as the man was describing his meal coarse. The sound of the fish, the wild bird, the mashed root vegetables, they even had rice!! Though all three of them looked at each other confused “I-I’m sorry forgive us” said the mother “but what exactly is……boar?” Iskar looked to his father to see if he had the answer, but his father shrugged

Adi'ola looked confused as their guests asked what wild boar was. Did they really not know? Did they not have that animal where they came from? "It is a kind of pig...I am only assuming you have something like pigs in your land? The meat ends up being very tender and is usually quite salty in flavor here." Her father explained. "Hopefully it is to your liking!"

Adi'ola looked confused as their guests asked what wild boar was. Did they really not know? Did they not have that animal where ...

@SumiLumia - jump We…..I apologize we do not have pigs where we are from. But it sounds quite sweet to me” “A sweet meat sounds craving” said his father. “The others may be curious of its flavor

"Well! No worry on that end! Hopefully the boar on the menu tonight will have your taste buds tingling, and if they don't-." The king leaned in as if he was about to share a secret with their visitors. "I wasn't the one who seasoned that meat." And then he was leaning back and laughing like that was the funniest joke he'd ever told. "Father please." Adi'ola sighed and shook her head. "Let us go and check on how the meal is coming along shall we?" Both of her parents embarrassing her in front of her potential new partner was entirely too much.

SumiLumia

"Well! No worry on that end! Hopefully the boar on the menu tonight will have your taste buds tingling, and if they don't-." The king leaned in as if he was about to share a secret with their visitors. "I wasn't the one who seasoned that meat." And then he was leaning back and laughing like that was the funniest joke he'd ever told. "Father please." Adi'ola sighed and shook her head. "Let us go and check on how the meal is coming along shall we?" Both of her parents embarrassing her in front of her potential new partner was entirely too much.

The father nodded to him, well if he did not season, then who? The high priestess nodded to them. “I agree, it is best for us to settle in. I am sure dinner will excite the tribes of our home overseas” Iskar had a bit of a confused look. Yet it was solid stare. He had trained his whole life and yet…..his purpose was redirected to……intertwine a useless connection. He was bred for war….and THIS was what his l-ow. His mother had punched him in a painful point causing him to wince. “I know what you’re thinking, stop it” she said sternly “Yes mother” he grunted.

Adi'ola covered her mouth to hide the way she wanted to laugh just as her own mother shot her a glare full of daggers. "ahem. Yes. We will see you all at dinner." She mumbled and quickly ushered her father out of the room to go down to the kitchens, keeping up enough speed so that her mother would remain out of earshot. "Father, he seems so cold. How could I possibly be wed to him? How could we possibly run this kingdom together?" She practically whined as they walked because she knew her father would be softer on her. "Cold, but I saw you looking at him my child." He answered back knowingly. "Well-..I mean yes he certainly is attractive, but that is the least of my concerns! What about-?" "I did not mean that Adi'ola. I meant that you shared looks between you and have already bonded over your relationships with your mothers. What a fine start to a union!" He clapped his hands as they entered the kitchens to start looking over dishes that were already prepared. "Father, you must be joking. That 'bond' means nothing for the fate of this kingdom or the fate of my life-." "Adi'ola. My sweet and overly anxious child. You will be fine." The portly and kind-faced man asserted. "I know that our goddess rains down her love and support over you. She has faith and so do I. Now. Try these tamarind balls, have some wine, and relax." "Father..." She started wearily before accepting the dessert. "Fine..."

SumiLumia

Adi'ola covered her mouth to hide the way she wanted to laugh just as her own mother shot her a glare full of daggers. "ahem. Yes. We will see you all at dinner." She mumbled and quickly ushered her father out of the room to go down to the kitchens, keeping up enough speed so that her mother would remain out of earshot. "Father, he seems so cold. How could I possibly be wed to him? How could we possibly run this kingdom together?" She practically whined as they walked because she knew her father would be softer on her. "Cold, but I saw you looking at him my child." He answered back knowingly. "Well-..I mean yes he certainly is attractive, but that is the least of my concerns! What about-?" "I did not mean that Adi'ola. I meant that you shared looks between you and have already bonded over your relationships with your mothers. What a fine start to a union!" He clapped his hands as they entered the kitchens to start looking over dishes that were already prepared. "Father, you must be joking. That 'bond' means nothing for the fate of this kingdom or the fate of my life-." "Adi'ola. My sweet and overly anxious child. You will be fine." The portly and kind-faced man asserted. "I know that our goddess rains down her love and support over you. She has faith and so do I. Now. Try these tamarind balls, have some wine, and relax." "Father..." She started wearily before accepting the dessert. "Fine..."

“Permission to speak freely mother” Iskar said. “You may” “Why must I engage in this foreign concept?” “It is what we do to stay connected to the outside world. This is not jsut for our family but for the tribes as well” “And if they betray us? What then? Our family was accepted into the tribes, and betrayed the spirit’s trust” “Those were your ancestors my son” said the father. “You are not guilty of those sins, nor is your mother” “But you have trained me to kill is that not a fact?” He asked a little emotional and irritated in his heart “so therefore I should have been sent to war. Not cramp myself within these walls” “This isn’t about you Iskar” his mother said walking toward him “this is about assuring we know what goes on in the outside world, who we can trust. And who will come for us. And marrying into this family guarantees an extra pair of ears and guarantees our trust” “They defile the land mother. They build and tear stone that is not loose. They force the spirits to bend into their own desired shape, is that not why we have come to hate outsiders? They work not with what the spirits give them” “The SPIRITS, my child. Are the ones of whom we share a bond with. For we know only our own, not theirs. And as much as I disagree with the palace. We know not if their spirits are harmed from this act. Only can we wait. But you will intertwine with her. So we may never be invaded ever again by outsiders filled with greed, am i understood?” Iskar gulped as he clenched his jaw. He was trained, bred for war. He trained with the Te’kah. He was bred to fight against any storm to come their way. He was filled with excitement to swear unto Mec’to. And yet his mother hath ruined those plans. Yet she was right. This was a way to ensure their continent not be colonized again like it was done before. Yet he still yearned for the life of the open field, and the combat against those who dare bring poison to their grounds. Him and his mother soon walked out of the room, leaving Iskar alone with his thoughts.

Too many desserts and one full glass of wine later saw Adi'ola heading back to her room to get dressed for the evening meal. While she was still almost entirely against this whole arrangement, a belly full of delicious food and drink was softening the blow for the time being. Like father like daughter in that regard. She dressed in a light blue tunic dress with heavy gold metal accents and looped her braids into a bun. Not that she had a choice. Her mother had laid out outfits for her, day and night, for the duration of Iskar and his family's visit. At least she could say she liked the clothes. And once downstairs again, she joined her parents in the dining hall, where there was enough food to feed them all for a month, and waited for their guests to arrive.

SumiLumia

Too many desserts and one full glass of wine later saw Adi'ola heading back to her room to get dressed for the evening meal. While she was still almost entirely against this whole arrangement, a belly full of delicious food and drink was softening the blow for the time being. Like father like daughter in that regard. She dressed in a light blue tunic dress with heavy gold metal accents and looped her braids into a bun. Not that she had a choice. Her mother had laid out outfits for her, day and night, for the duration of Iskar and his family's visit. At least she could say she liked the clothes. And once downstairs again, she joined her parents in the dining hall, where there was enough food to feed them all for a month, and waited for their guests to arrive.

Iskar and his family, along with the other tribe members had all looked around the massive room, impressed with the design and the architecture. Except for Iskar, he was looking for escape routes. As well as staring at the guards, trying to identify weak points that he can exploit should he escape. “Ack” he grunted as his mother pinched him. “What did I say about that?” “What? We need-“ “To behave ourselves yes?” His mom asked shooting him a warning look. He grunted and stood up straight “yes mother” he said no questions asked this time. For him he had worn a Celtic outfit of green. He anticipated what was to come next. He hated this, the wedding, the arrangement. All of it, if he could he would have put his skills to the test. And at least go to where the enemy could be instead of stuck here where all they do is live in ignorance.

Who is Who?

Iskar and his family, along with the other tribe members had all looked around the massive room, impressed with the design and the architecture. Except for Iskar, he was looking for escape routes. As well as staring at the guards, trying to identify weak points that he can exploit should he escape. “Ack” he grunted as his mother pinched him. “What did I say about that?” “What? We need-“ “To behave ourselves yes?” His mom asked shooting him a warning look. He grunted and stood up straight “yes mother” he said no questions asked this time. For him he had worn a Celtic outfit of green. He anticipated what was to come next. He hated this, the wedding, the arrangement. All of it, if he could he would have put his skills to the test. And at least go to where the enemy could be instead of stuck here where all they do is live in ignorance.

Adi'ola's father, Odafe, nudged her and flashed a knowing smile as she held in another giggle at the sight of her very handsomely-dressed suitor getting pinched by his mother. She wondered what the woman was scolding him for considering it didn't seem like he'd said anything before he received his punishment. Her father then welcomed everyone to the evening meal and instructed them all to sit, Queen Sefiri at one head and Iskar's mother at the other. It was the only way in Kaali where everything was built upon a matriarchal foundation. "We will begin each my grabbing the dish directly in front of us and passing to the left as we fill our plates with delicious food! Everything was blessed by our goddess shortly before your arrival tonight, so we'll skip giving praise just this once!"

Adi'ola's father, Odafe, nudged her and flashed a knowing smile as she held in another giggle at the sight of her very handsom...

@SumiLumia - jump Thank you” his mother said as she took a bit and passed it to the next representative of the tribes. She rather felt at home with this tradition. The fact that it was a proper table, with proper silverware. Why she felt so posh just being in this room. It was quite refreshing of a change. His father had removed his helmet, yet his face was wrapped in cloth looking bandages. He took some of the food and passes it into the next. Iskar had taken some and watched as Ad’iola giggled at him getting pinched. To him she seemed sheltered, ignorant, spoiled. This could not have been good for the continent, if a war were to occur, then how would she combat the enemy? Some@of the tribal reps looked at the king confused “wait um….what’s a uhhhh, what’s a goddess?

Christian

Adi'ola's father, Odafe, nudged her and flashed a knowing smile as she held in another giggle at the sight of her very handsom...

@SumiLumia - jump Thank you” his mother said as she took a bit and passed it to the next representative of the tribes. She rather felt at home with this tradition. The fact that it was a proper table, with proper silverware. Why she felt so posh just being in this room. It was quite refreshing of a change. His father had removed his helmet, yet his face was wrapped in cloth looking bandages. He took some of the food and passes it into the next. Iskar had taken some and watched as Ad’iola giggled at him getting pinched. To him she seemed sheltered, ignorant, spoiled. This could not have been good for the continent, if a war were to occur, then how would she combat the enemy? Some@of the tribal reps looked at the king confused “wait um….what’s a uhhhh, what’s a goddess?

Adi'ola looked up at the tribesman who asked with nearly as much confusion as they had on her own face. But before she could say anything, her mother did. "Adi'ola, you can explain. Tell our guests about Ala." As much as Adi'ola didn't want to be here entertaining the future family she was about to basically be forced to become a part of, she would never dishonor her goddess by refusing to speak on her. "U-um-." She cleared her throat with a sip of water to steady herself. This was something she could do with confidence. "A goddess, our goddess is named Ala. She is the original ancestor from which our entire nation was born. We worship her and she keeps us safe, healthy, and prosperous. We communicate with her through sources of water, mainly rivers. If our faith is shown to be strong to her satisfaction, she may even shine down upon us the gift of the waves." Adi'ola possessed the gift, but to this day, she did not understand what she did to deserve it. "Do your people...not have deities?"

SumiLumia

Adi'ola looked up at the tribesman who asked with nearly as much confusion as they had on her own face. But before she could say anything, her mother did. "Adi'ola, you can explain. Tell our guests about Ala." As much as Adi'ola didn't want to be here entertaining the future family she was about to basically be forced to become a part of, she would never dishonor her goddess by refusing to speak on her. "U-um-." She cleared her throat with a sip of water to steady herself. This was something she could do with confidence. "A goddess, our goddess is named Ala. She is the original ancestor from which our entire nation was born. We worship her and she keeps us safe, healthy, and prosperous. We communicate with her through sources of water, mainly rivers. If our faith is shown to be strong to her satisfaction, she may even shine down upon us the gift of the waves." Adi'ola possessed the gift, but to this day, she did not understand what she did to deserve it. "Do your people...not have deities?"

They blinked at her remark. A goddess….who was once one of them. Interesting. They got wide eyed at each word she had said. “Oohhhhh, so she’s a spirit of the ocean” “So she was one of you, and physical, then she transformed into a spirit?” Iskar looked at his parents “did anybody at home do that before?” “Not that I know of, dear?” His mother asked. “None that have been written in stone” he shrugged.

Who is Who?

They blinked at her remark. A goddess….who was once one of them. Interesting. They got wide eyed at each word she had said. “Oohhhhh, so she’s a spirit of the ocean” “So she was one of you, and physical, then she transformed into a spirit?” Iskar looked at his parents “did anybody at home do that before?” “Not that I know of, dear?” His mother asked. “None that have been written in stone” he shrugged.

"We do not know for sure as our earliest history was not written down. What we believe is that she was always up above but she had children with a human at some point and started our bloodline. We call her family because she treats us as such and her power only shows up in those of us who have a direct blood connection to the second mother-." Adi'ola stopped and frowned because she couldn't remember the name of her oldest know ancestor following Ala. "Gisae my dear. The second mother was named Gisae." Sefiri offered with a soft smile. "Yes. Thank you mother. She is a spirit of the waters though. We can talk to her in any from any natural source of water or through any waters that have been prayed over."

SumiLumia

"We do not know for sure as our earliest history was not written down. What we believe is that she was always up above but she had children with a human at some point and started our bloodline. We call her family because she treats us as such and her power only shows up in those of us who have a direct blood connection to the second mother-." Adi'ola stopped and frowned because she couldn't remember the name of her oldest know ancestor following Ala. "Gisae my dear. The second mother was named Gisae." Sefiri offered with a soft smile. "Yes. Thank you mother. She is a spirit of the waters though. We can talk to her in any from any natural source of water or through any waters that have been prayed over."

So they DO have spirits. It sounded to them that dieties and spirits are the same yet different. “We have spirits of the waters as well, Ches’ute and Ka’nute. They are spirits of both the ocean and the rivers, and travel between the streams and the vast bodies of water” said one of the elders.

"How lovely. I've heard of Ka'nute from my personal studies on water deities. I've always wondered if the spirits of different nations ever communicated with each other." Sefiri could talk about her research and interest in this until she was blue in the face, but she thought to maybe bring it up with Iskar's mother in private some time later. "Our ancestors live in the rivers around us now. The big one that travels through our land is where we go to speak with them should we need guidance." It might of sounded like Adi'ola was talking in some metaphorical way, but she was being literal. And with her whole life on a tilt suddenly. she'd found herself in the water for hours day after day.

SumiLumia

"How lovely. I've heard of Ka'nute from my personal studies on water deities. I've always wondered if the spirits of different nations ever communicated with each other." Sefiri could talk about her research and interest in this until she was blue in the face, but she thought to maybe bring it up with Iskar's mother in private some time later. "Our ancestors live in the rivers around us now. The big one that travels through our land is where we go to speak with them should we need guidance." It might of sounded like Adi'ola was talking in some metaphorical way, but she was being literal. And with her whole life on a tilt suddenly. she'd found herself in the water for hours day after day.

"A river, where they all communicate?" "that is very convenient" "Many of our spirits are of the land, water, or sky. They have many locations to which we come to communicate with them. They never usually like to stay in one place" Iskar looked at them with a surprised emotion. Their spirits communicate with one river? That sounds rather very efficient if one asks him. "In our continent, their ancestors have become one with the earth. For our lands, father earth forged us, and mother nature gave us life. As we have come from them, so do shall we return to them"

Mother Earth? Adi'ola had always been taught that all life came from the water, so who was this Mother Earth? She figured Iskar and his tribe just didn't fully know their own history and brushed off their origin story quickly. "How do you worship your deities? Do you pray? Do you provide offerings?" She asked as a bow of bitter greens was passed to her from her father.

SumiLumia

Mother Earth? Adi'ola had always been taught that all life came from the water, so who was this Mother Earth? She figured Iskar and his tribe just didn't fully know their own history and brushed off their origin story quickly. "How do you worship your deities? Do you pray? Do you provide offerings?" She asked as a bow of bitter greens was passed to her from her father.

"We do, if the offerings are good, but if they are bad for us and taste unwell. Then we do not give them. We share what we have made with the mother, and we comb the land to keep it fresh and well for father" "We....are unfamiliar with the term pray, worship them we do not. However we learn from them, they speak to us through the winds. In the mind, from the trees, from all around. Father earth speaks to us with the thooms of the ground, and mother nature speaks to us in the shape of the plants to which she hath given birth to. THough we don't hear from those two very often, we hear more from the river spirits and the spirits of the forest"

Who is Who?

"We do, if the offerings are good, but if they are bad for us and taste unwell. Then we do not give them. We share what we have made with the mother, and we comb the land to keep it fresh and well for father" "We....are unfamiliar with the term pray, worship them we do not. However we learn from them, they speak to us through the winds. In the mind, from the trees, from all around. Father earth speaks to us with the thooms of the ground, and mother nature speaks to us in the shape of the plants to which she hath given birth to. THough we don't hear from those two very often, we hear more from the river spirits and the spirits of the forest"

So they did have a few things in common, speaking with their ancestors through the natural world. Adi'ola thought that at least her spiritual practices wouldn't come off as weird. "Adi'ola will surely find some time to explain the ways of our people more to Iskar over the coming days leading up to the wedding." Sefiri added in once it was clear that her daughter had nothing else to say. "Yes and I'm sure she will also be interested to hear all about yours." Her father tacked on between bites of his delicious food. "Oh um-...yes of course. I...look forward to sharing our customs." Adi'ola mumbled. She was lying, but she also knew it was the right thing to say.

SumiLumia

So they did have a few things in common, speaking with their ancestors through the natural world. Adi'ola thought that at least her spiritual practices wouldn't come off as weird. "Adi'ola will surely find some time to explain the ways of our people more to Iskar over the coming days leading up to the wedding." Sefiri added in once it was clear that her daughter had nothing else to say. "Yes and I'm sure she will also be interested to hear all about yours." Her father tacked on between bites of his delicious food. "Oh um-...yes of course. I...look forward to sharing our customs." Adi'ola mumbled. She was lying, but she also knew it was the right thing to say.

Iskar turned his head to the King, then to Adi’ola. He could tell from her voice and her facial expressions that she didn’t want to share their customs. All the more reason this was a false idea of an ideal. She wouldn’t understand their ideals, especially not ones of the tribes, why they do what they do or why they don’t carve the earth into a specific shape like this kingdom had done. “I’m sure we are all going to be excited for these exchanges” his mother said happily “now do tell me please, when did you build such a grand palace? I have only seen drawings and stories of such designs from before my ancestors migrated to the continent. But never have I seen one until now”

Who is Who?

Iskar turned his head to the King, then to Adi’ola. He could tell from her voice and her facial expressions that she didn’t want to share their customs. All the more reason this was a false idea of an ideal. She wouldn’t understand their ideals, especially not ones of the tribes, why they do what they do or why they don’t carve the earth into a specific shape like this kingdom had done. “I’m sure we are all going to be excited for these exchanges” his mother said happily “now do tell me please, when did you build such a grand palace? I have only seen drawings and stories of such designs from before my ancestors migrated to the continent. But never have I seen one until now”

"Ahh it was built long before my time." Sefiri answered, more than eager to talk about the history of her people and their accomplishments. "It was during what we refer to as the Chansa Period. We wanted to have the ancestors among us even indoors and as the kingdom grew, so this palace was built in a way that simply collects the waters from the heavens and allows it to flow naturally through these walls and eventually down to the river where many of us still go regularly." Adi'ola listened to her mother explain with pride swelling in her own heart, but she couldn't help when her eyes drifted over to Iskar to see if he was judging them again. She almost wanted him to, so that she could have more reason to be angry and dislike him.

SumiLumia

"Ahh it was built long before my time." Sefiri answered, more than eager to talk about the history of her people and their accomplishments. "It was during what we refer to as the Chansa Period. We wanted to have the ancestors among us even indoors and as the kingdom grew, so this palace was built in a way that simply collects the waters from the heavens and allows it to flow naturally through these walls and eventually down to the river where many of us still go regularly." Adi'ola listened to her mother explain with pride swelling in her own heart, but she couldn't help when her eyes drifted over to Iskar to see if he was judging them again. She almost wanted him to, so that she could have more reason to be angry and dislike him.

“Ahhh, so what you’re saying is that the waters are where you and your ancestors speak to one another? Like a bridge between the life and afterlife” his mother said intrigued. “Such a wonderful way to build these walls” Iskar turned to his father, then his mother. He hated what he was hearing. Harming the earth just to build a way to speak to the ancestors? There should have been easier ways to do so.

Who is Who?

“Ahhh, so what you’re saying is that the waters are where you and your ancestors speak to one another? Like a bridge between the life and afterlife” his mother said intrigued. “Such a wonderful way to build these walls” Iskar turned to his father, then his mother. He hated what he was hearing. Harming the earth just to build a way to speak to the ancestors? There should have been easier ways to do so.

"Yes exactly. It is mostly us thanking them and them providing guidance as they see fit. We have much to honor them for." Adi'ola spoke up at that after rolling her eyes at Iskar. "I am very lucky to feel my Bibi's presence here whenever I call out to her. The ancestors are bound to the water, so building this palace allows them to travel a bit more freely and come to us whenever they see fit." "Bibi means grandmother here." King Odafe added with a cheery smile. "She seems to come to our little Adi'ola often."

"Yes exactly. It is mostly us thanking them and them providing guidance as they see fit. We have much to honor them for." Adi'ol...

@SumiLumia - jump Ohhh, how adorable. Oh I wish I could meet her as well” said the high priestess. “Maybe we could” said one of them “If your spirits will allow it?” Asked another. “I remember when my grandmother was around, she always made the best biscuits for the whole family

"I would love to explore the possibilities of communication between our ancestors and the spirits of your people. What a beautiful way of joining our kingdoms even more, wouldn't you think so Adi?" Her mother had literal sparkles in her eyes and Adi'ola had to stop herself from sighing from the pure exhaustion that came with that sort of energy from the woman. Luckily, she was cut off by her father before she could disagree and protest the use of her nickname with strangers. "Iskar, tell us about your homeland from your perspective. We'd love to hear what you like most about your land and people." Anything to stop his daughter's attitude from showing too much.

SumiLumia

"I would love to explore the possibilities of communication between our ancestors and the spirits of your people. What a beautiful way of joining our kingdoms even more, wouldn't you think so Adi?" Her mother had literal sparkles in her eyes and Adi'ola had to stop herself from sighing from the pure exhaustion that came with that sort of energy from the woman. Luckily, she was cut off by her father before she could disagree and protest the use of her nickname with strangers. "Iskar, tell us about your homeland from your perspective. We'd love to hear what you like most about your land and people." Anything to stop his daughter's attitude from showing too much.

The priestess was absolutely loving the queen as they seemed to vibe on the same level. A spiritual exchange? What a wonderful way to bond with both sides. Seeing this Iskar looked up at him as he sat up. His mother began to sweat a little, worried of what her son might say. And without hesitation he spoke his words “On our lands, we are trained to respect and give back to the spirits for what they have. We have been threatened before, hence the purpose of the Te’kah is to fight. The Plains belong to the Korrush tribe , for they bond with the spirit of the horse to ride the plains. The Navejage are meant to heal and maintain the balance of the forest growth. And the Mctirshin tribe’s purpose is to watch over and provide balance to the coastal shores. It is the duty of the Te’kah to fight the storms that bring discord to our lands (hehe, get it? Discord), even if it means to purge its existence” His eyes did not blink once, for it was a cold hard stare into the eyes of the royal family. His mother’s smile still remained but her jaw was now very much so clenched from every word her son spoke. And his father signed, knowing how dedicated his son was to the culture.

Who is Who?

The priestess was absolutely loving the queen as they seemed to vibe on the same level. A spiritual exchange? What a wonderful way to bond with both sides. Seeing this Iskar looked up at him as he sat up. His mother began to sweat a little, worried of what her son might say. And without hesitation he spoke his words “On our lands, we are trained to respect and give back to the spirits for what they have. We have been threatened before, hence the purpose of the Te’kah is to fight. The Plains belong to the Korrush tribe , for they bond with the spirit of the horse to ride the plains. The Navejage are meant to heal and maintain the balance of the forest growth. And the Mctirshin tribe’s purpose is to watch over and provide balance to the coastal shores. It is the duty of the Te’kah to fight the storms that bring discord to our lands (hehe, get it? Discord), even if it means to purge its existence” His eyes did not blink once, for it was a cold hard stare into the eyes of the royal family. His mother’s smile still remained but her jaw was now very much so clenched from every word her son spoke. And his father signed, knowing how dedicated his son was to the culture.

"...Yes dear boy. But what do you love about your land and people?" The King asked again. He admired the strength this young man carried in the face of what was surely a terrifying duty. Marry a stranger in a foreign land and unite two kingdoms. No one dreams of a life like that. Adi'ola leaned forward, waiting to hear Iskar's updated answer as well. She could go on for hours about all of the things she loved about Kali. Could he do the same of his nation? Did he really love his people?

"...Yes dear boy. But what do you love about your land and people?" The King asked again. He admired the strength this young m...

@SumiLumia - jump Our land gives us bountiful fruit. And fresh food for our generations and neighbors, the plains are vast to which we can run for hours and hours on end to speed through and feel the wind in our hair. The crops we grow are vibrant and strong within its many nutrients and flavor. many of the wildlife live with us in harmony, side by side to maintain the balance of our world. And the mountains make us strong, train us to withstand even the worst of storms that come our way

Adi'ola frowned and sat back. Just like she'd told her father earlier, Iskar truly was very cold. This did not bode well for the long future they were forced to have together. She would mourn the loss of the ability to find love and warmth for a very long time. "Mother. I would like to be excused for the evening. I am really quite tired." She mumbled, eyes dimmed of any light or joy, and moved to get up from the table. Her father stopped her though and she her expression turned to one of hurt that she didn't care who else saw. "Dessert first my sweet child. Your favorite is on the menu. You'd be disappointed if you missed it." They stared back at each other for a long moment before Adi'ola slowly dropped back into her seat, her gaze falling solemnly to the nearly full plate of food in front of her. She wasn't hungry. She wanted to leave. Run away. Go to the river and beg her grandmother to take her to a realm where she wouldn't have to suffer this fate. But she couldn't. Her duty was here. "Yes father. You are right. I will wait."

SumiLumia

Adi'ola frowned and sat back. Just like she'd told her father earlier, Iskar truly was very cold. This did not bode well for the long future they were forced to have together. She would mourn the loss of the ability to find love and warmth for a very long time. "Mother. I would like to be excused for the evening. I am really quite tired." She mumbled, eyes dimmed of any light or joy, and moved to get up from the table. Her father stopped her though and she her expression turned to one of hurt that she didn't care who else saw. "Dessert first my sweet child. Your favorite is on the menu. You'd be disappointed if you missed it." They stared back at each other for a long moment before Adi'ola slowly dropped back into her seat, her gaze falling solemnly to the nearly full plate of food in front of her. She wasn't hungry. She wanted to leave. Run away. Go to the river and beg her grandmother to take her to a realm where she wouldn't have to suffer this fate. But she couldn't. Her duty was here. "Yes father. You are right. I will wait."

As Adi’ola was getting up to walk out, Iskar thought that was his chance. That he saved the land from another potential purge but……dammit, she’s staying. “We would love some desert” his mother said with her confident smile. And rubbing her son’s shoulder. Which that body touch roughly translates to “I’m gonna kill you when this is over” “Dessert. From what I hear it is a focused sweet. We, the tribes have been curious about the taste of….dessert. The closest resemblance we have from our home is fruits from trees” his father siad breaking the awkward silence.

Who is Who?

As Adi’ola was getting up to walk out, Iskar thought that was his chance. That he saved the land from another potential purge but……dammit, she’s staying. “We would love some desert” his mother said with her confident smile. And rubbing her son’s shoulder. Which that body touch roughly translates to “I’m gonna kill you when this is over” “Dessert. From what I hear it is a focused sweet. We, the tribes have been curious about the taste of….dessert. The closest resemblance we have from our home is fruits from trees” his father siad breaking the awkward silence.

"Well then bring out the desserts!" Odafe clasped his large hands together and their meals began to be switched out for large plates of different sweets. "My little Adi's favorite are the tamarind balls, but I also recommend the liquored cakes and the sugared plantains if you prefer something closer to the sort of sweets you're used to back home." The cheery man loaded up a plate of sweets for his daughter and then his wife before gesturing to everyone else to help themselves as well. "Please, share your thoughts!"

SumiLumia

"Well then bring out the desserts!" Odafe clasped his large hands together and their meals began to be switched out for large plates of different sweets. "My little Adi's favorite are the tamarind balls, but I also recommend the liquored cakes and the sugared plantains if you prefer something closer to the sort of sweets you're used to back home." The cheery man loaded up a plate of sweets for his daughter and then his wife before gesturing to everyone else to help themselves as well. "Please, share your thoughts!"

As they munched down on them, the natives got wide eyed. And consumed a second helping. "BRO this is gooood" said one of them "By the spirits how come we don't have anything this sweet?" "What's wrong with teh spices back home?" "They're either spicy or not sweet" The priestess squealed in delight "These are delicous. Oh my word I MUST bring these home to my people" "With controlled supply, I fear these are addictive treats" Said his father "Yes yes dear we'll sort that all out later" She said cutting him off. Iskar took a bite and tasted it, he almsot lost himself as he got wide eyed as the flavor caught him off guard but....worked to maintain his composure "It is.....highly addictive"

Who is Who?

As they munched down on them, the natives got wide eyed. And consumed a second helping. "BRO this is gooood" said one of them "By the spirits how come we don't have anything this sweet?" "What's wrong with teh spices back home?" "They're either spicy or not sweet" The priestess squealed in delight "These are delicous. Oh my word I MUST bring these home to my people" "With controlled supply, I fear these are addictive treats" Said his father "Yes yes dear we'll sort that all out later" She said cutting him off. Iskar took a bite and tasted it, he almsot lost himself as he got wide eyed as the flavor caught him off guard but....worked to maintain his composure "It is.....highly addictive"

It actually cheered Adi'ola up a little bit to see their visitors enjoying the offerings of her culture with such excitement. Aside from Iskar of course who couldn't crack a smile if his life was on the line, she thought. "Allow us to send you home with some prepared desserts as well as some of the sweetening agents we use for our dishes! And upon your next visit, we can enjoy some of the new things you manage to create!" If the conversation was about food, Odafe would always be excited. In his mind and heart, nothing brought people together more than a delicious meal. "Moderation is key, or so I've always been taught." Adi'ola offered as a rebuttal to the apparent addictive properties of the food. "I am sure you have the discipline to practice it." Was that supposed to be a compliment? Sefiri flashed her daughter a tight smile because it sure didn't come off that way. "One night of indulgence never hurt anyone. Please enjoy. It is our honor to serve you." The Queen added and turned a more genuine smile to their guests.

SumiLumia

It actually cheered Adi'ola up a little bit to see their visitors enjoying the offerings of her culture with such excitement. Aside from Iskar of course who couldn't crack a smile if his life was on the line, she thought. "Allow us to send you home with some prepared desserts as well as some of the sweetening agents we use for our dishes! And upon your next visit, we can enjoy some of the new things you manage to create!" If the conversation was about food, Odafe would always be excited. In his mind and heart, nothing brought people together more than a delicious meal. "Moderation is key, or so I've always been taught." Adi'ola offered as a rebuttal to the apparent addictive properties of the food. "I am sure you have the discipline to practice it." Was that supposed to be a compliment? Sefiri flashed her daughter a tight smile because it sure didn't come off that way. "One night of indulgence never hurt anyone. Please enjoy. It is our honor to serve you." The Queen added and turned a more genuine smile to their guests.

"OH yes indeed, but before we dig in, we must offer you some of OUR treats as well" She said excited as they brought out what looked to be sweet potatoes sliced and diced and oven roasted while mixed with onions, parsley, and roasted garlic. Along with bison meat stew, and a beef dish that was on top of roasted corn. "We have not wanted to leave you all without a taste of our home. As well as some insight of our way of life" Iskar indeed, could not crack a smile. As he was focused on one task at hand. And that was to ensure his people's survival. His father on the other hand was consuming many of these "Hey dude aren't you te'kah? Whatever happened to discipline?" "I have my flaws" His father said while consuming the deserts.

Who is Who?

"OH yes indeed, but before we dig in, we must offer you some of OUR treats as well" She said excited as they brought out what looked to be sweet potatoes sliced and diced and oven roasted while mixed with onions, parsley, and roasted garlic. Along with bison meat stew, and a beef dish that was on top of roasted corn. "We have not wanted to leave you all without a taste of our home. As well as some insight of our way of life" Iskar indeed, could not crack a smile. As he was focused on one task at hand. And that was to ensure his people's survival. His father on the other hand was consuming many of these "Hey dude aren't you te'kah? Whatever happened to discipline?" "I have my flaws" His father said while consuming the deserts.

Adi'ola and her parents all lit up at the offer of these new cultural dishes. "We'd love to try them!" They all said in some form, practically in unison. The food was brought in and the new smells were intoxicating. Everything was so herbaceous and fragrant. "Everything looks so earthy and delicious!" Adi'ola chimed and happily accepted every plate. Food was a language of love for her, something she'd gotten from her father over time. Sharing a meal would always be a special thing for her. "This stew is wonderful. Father, we should gather everyone to prepare a meal together sometime this week." "Brilliant idea, dear Adi! We could learn so much from our guests!"

SumiLumia

Adi'ola and her parents all lit up at the offer of these new cultural dishes. "We'd love to try them!" They all said in some form, practically in unison. The food was brought in and the new smells were intoxicating. Everything was so herbaceous and fragrant. "Everything looks so earthy and delicious!" Adi'ola chimed and happily accepted every plate. Food was a language of love for her, something she'd gotten from her father over time. Sharing a meal would always be a special thing for her. "This stew is wonderful. Father, we should gather everyone to prepare a meal together sometime this week." "Brilliant idea, dear Adi! We could learn so much from our guests!"

“PERFECT!” One of them blurted out. “Aye I got some bbq methods I’ve been wanting to try for some time” “We hope ya lads enjoy goat cause we got a number of em” The priestess clapped her hands joyfully “0h this is wonderful news. To cook altogether, I don’t think my husband can refuse THAT” “Truthfully, I cannot resist this” the husband said holding up the dessert. As the hour came close, the mother looked up at the sky. “Oh dear me, it’s getting quite late, I think we should all get going to bed” his mother said smiling to them. Instantly Iskar stood up, as he was feeling cramped from this space.

Who is Who?

“PERFECT!” One of them blurted out. “Aye I got some bbq methods I’ve been wanting to try for some time” “We hope ya lads enjoy goat cause we got a number of em” The priestess clapped her hands joyfully “0h this is wonderful news. To cook altogether, I don’t think my husband can refuse THAT” “Truthfully, I cannot resist this” the husband said holding up the dessert. As the hour came close, the mother looked up at the sky. “Oh dear me, it’s getting quite late, I think we should all get going to bed” his mother said smiling to them. Instantly Iskar stood up, as he was feeling cramped from this space.

The moon was high by this point, and Adi'ola had been suppressing her own yawns for some time. Early to bed, early to rise or whatever her mother always said. "Yes of course. A good night's rest is essentially to being able to fulfill our duties. Do any of you need help finding your rooms or have you gotten a hold of the lay of the palace?" Sefiri asked as she rose as well. Adi'ola followed and was ready to simply leave herself, but her mother stopped her. "Adi'ola, will you escort Iskar to his room. It will give you two a few moments to speak." The young woman frowned but decided it would be a wasted effort to fight with her mother again tonight. "Of course." She mumbled and headed for the hall. "Iskar, please follow me."

SumiLumia

The moon was high by this point, and Adi'ola had been suppressing her own yawns for some time. Early to bed, early to rise or whatever her mother always said. "Yes of course. A good night's rest is essentially to being able to fulfill our duties. Do any of you need help finding your rooms or have you gotten a hold of the lay of the palace?" Sefiri asked as she rose as well. Adi'ola followed and was ready to simply leave herself, but her mother stopped her. "Adi'ola, will you escort Iskar to his room. It will give you two a few moments to speak." The young woman frowned but decided it would be a wasted effort to fight with her mother again tonight. "Of course." She mumbled and headed for the hall. "Iskar, please follow me."

Iskar halted as he turned to the queen. Then looked at his mother. To which she replied with “oh that is an excellent idea, I’m sure Iskar would love a tour yes?” She then gave Iskar her subtle mother look. To which Iskar clenched his jaw and nodded “yes, it would be…..appreciated” One of the natives walked over to the king “Hey, you know what we should do? A big ol pan of egg fried rice……with beef”

Who is Who?

Iskar halted as he turned to the queen. Then looked at his mother. To which she replied with “oh that is an excellent idea, I’m sure Iskar would love a tour yes?” She then gave Iskar her subtle mother look. To which Iskar clenched his jaw and nodded “yes, it would be…..appreciated” One of the natives walked over to the king “Hey, you know what we should do? A big ol pan of egg fried rice……with beef”

"Rice and eggs? What an interesting combination! I would love to hear more about this!" Odafe turned his attention back to the food talk, assuming his daughter would be fine for now. Once in the hall, Adi'ola glanced back at Iskar once just to make sure he was following before starting to walk herself. The dining hall was quite far from the sleeping quarters, so they had to be together alone for a little while. "Great. Awkward silence for however long." She thought to herself.

SumiLumia

"Rice and eggs? What an interesting combination! I would love to hear more about this!" Odafe turned his attention back to the food talk, assuming his daughter would be fine for now. Once in the hall, Adi'ola glanced back at Iskar once just to make sure he was following before starting to walk herself. The dining hall was quite far from the sleeping quarters, so they had to be together alone for a little while. "Great. Awkward silence for however long." She thought to herself.

As they walked back to the room, Iskar looked up to the moon, so full. So….bright. Normally at nights like these the moon dance would commence, through for him it was moon combat. He then looked at the walls and the layout. “How many died?”

Who is Who?

As they walked back to the room, Iskar looked up to the moon, so full. So….bright. Normally at nights like these the moon dance would commence, through for him it was moon combat. He then looked at the walls and the layout. “How many died?”

"How many died?" Adi'ola asked, confused by such a random question. "How many died when? Where?"

SumiLumia

"How many died?" Adi'ola asked, confused by such a random question. "How many died when? Where?"

He turned his head at the wall to examine its many properties. He knew the stories, he knew the ones his great grandfather had told him. And the many flames that soiled the air. “How many did you kill just to build this castle?”

Who is Who?

He turned his head at the wall to examine its many properties. He knew the stories, he knew the ones his great grandfather had told him. And the many flames that soiled the air. “How many did you kill just to build this castle?”

She recoiled at such a horrible question, turned her deep frown onto him directly this time. It's like this man was trying to be offensive at every turn. "No one died to build this palace. We did not enslave people and work them to death to create this home Iskar. Why would you ask such a thing? We are not monsters."

SumiLumia

She recoiled at such a horrible question, turned her deep frown onto him directly this time. It's like this man was trying to be offensive at every turn. "No one died to build this palace. We did not enslave people and work them to death to create this home Iskar. Why would you ask such a thing? We are not monsters."

"You're not, monsters lack the ability to speak in tongues, read, or write. But you're human, you're vulnerable to greed" He turned his head to her. Of coarse she would deny it, his mother was turning a blind eye trusting them. Not even great grandfather would. "There was a castle on our land once, they killed and ripped the land apart to build it. They killed the wildlife, and the people who lived on that plot of land"

Who is Who?

"You're not, monsters lack the ability to speak in tongues, read, or write. But you're human, you're vulnerable to greed" He turned his head to her. Of coarse she would deny it, his mother was turning a blind eye trusting them. Not even great grandfather would. "There was a castle on our land once, they killed and ripped the land apart to build it. They killed the wildlife, and the people who lived on that plot of land"

"This land has been our people's since the earliest days...and from what I know, we took advantage of this open spot after a fire ravaged the land. So, we did not allow the wildlife to regrow, but we did not kill it on purpose either, Iskar. It is very rude of you to assume such harshness when we honor our surroundings just as your people do."

SumiLumia

"This land has been our people's since the earliest days...and from what I know, we took advantage of this open spot after a fire ravaged the land. So, we did not allow the wildlife to regrow, but we did not kill it on purpose either, Iskar. It is very rude of you to assume such harshness when we honor our surroundings just as your people do."

"If that were true you wouldn't rip the earth from it's original shape into your own. Do you not think that would damage all that is around you?"

Who is Who?

"If that were true you wouldn't rip the earth from it's original shape into your own. Do you not think that would damage all that is around you?"

"I have no witnessed or heard of any longterm damage my ancestors did in the building of our home." She answered back defiantly. The environment around them was thriving as far as her eyes could see. "Where do you sleep back home? Where does your mother sleep?"

SumiLumia

"I have no witnessed or heard of any longterm damage my ancestors did in the building of our home." She answered back defiantly. The environment around them was thriving as far as her eyes could see. "Where do you sleep back home? Where does your mother sleep?"

“My mother sleeps in a hut we drew from straw and build with loose wood. My father and I sleep on the ground of the mountains or the grass” he turned back to her, she seemed so blind so naive. He thinks Just because something is thriving doesn’t mean there is suffering behind it, all curtains must be raised.

Who is Who?

“My mother sleeps in a hut we drew from straw and build with loose wood. My father and I sleep on the ground of the mountains or the grass” he turned back to her, she seemed so blind so naive. He thinks Just because something is thriving doesn’t mean there is suffering behind it, all curtains must be raised.

"Well I am glad that works for you. Our people sleep indoors protected from the elements. I don't think there's anything wrong with that."

SumiLumia

"Well I am glad that works for you. Our people sleep indoors protected from the elements. I don't think there's anything wrong with that."

"You protect yourself with what father earth has forged for you, your kind are spoiled. Ungrateful. You appreciate nothing of what they have given you" He said as a vein was starting to appear in his forehead.

Who is Who?

"You protect yourself with what father earth has forged for you, your kind are spoiled. Ungrateful. You appreciate nothing of what they have given you" He said as a vein was starting to appear in his forehead.

"You are extremely rude and judgmental. Where did you develop such an offstandish personality?" Adi'ola shot back and stopped their forward path. This man didn't deserve to walk the same halls as her ancestors did. "Your parents and people are so lovely, so it did not come from them."

SumiLumia

"You are extremely rude and judgmental. Where did you develop such an offstandish personality?" Adi'ola shot back and stopped their forward path. This man didn't deserve to walk the same halls as her ancestors did. "Your parents and people are so lovely, so it did not come from them."

“Did it matter? You say I’m rude yet you are blind and naive, you think the world is on a pure good path. You have a habit of thinking nobody has blood on their hands” he shot back at her. That was until he heard the sound of a sip, and slowy he turned and saw…..one of the few from his tribes sipping on a goblet. “Sorry, is this a bad time? I can come back later. You two are kinda cute fighting like this” “Shadup” Iskar said to him.

Who is Who?

“Did it matter? You say I’m rude yet you are blind and naive, you think the world is on a pure good path. You have a habit of thinking nobody has blood on their hands” he shot back at her. That was until he heard the sound of a sip, and slowy he turned and saw…..one of the few from his tribes sipping on a goblet. “Sorry, is this a bad time? I can come back later. You two are kinda cute fighting like this” “Shadup” Iskar said to him.

"Cute?!" Adi'ola all but shrieked. They were not cute. They were practically enemies if Iskar had anything to say about them. "Do you need help finding your room as well?" She offered and hoped for a yes just so that she wouldn't be alone with this infuriating man anymore.

SumiLumia

"Cute?!" Adi'ola all but shrieked. They were not cute. They were practically enemies if Iskar had anything to say about them. "Do you need help finding your room as well?" She offered and hoped for a yes just so that she wouldn't be alone with this infuriating man anymore.

“Naw I’m good. Lemmie know if he’s a good kisser though” he said walking over to another hallway. “WHAT?” Iskar shouted surprised and pissed.

"We will NOT being kissing!" She yelled and then covered her mouth because that was rude and unbecoming of a future queen. At least that's what her mother would say. "We should hurry and get to your room before we end up really attacking each other." She eventually huffed out and turned to keep walking. "In what realm would we ever end up kissing?"

SumiLumia

"We will NOT being kissing!" She yelled and then covered her mouth because that was rude and unbecoming of a future queen. At least that's what her mother would say. "We should hurry and get to your room before we end up really attacking each other." She eventually huffed out and turned to keep walking. "In what realm would we ever end up kissing?"

“Keep it to yourself” he said trying to hide his red face. “I’ve seen your build, the attack wouldn’t last long” he began marching towards his room.

Who is Who?

“Keep it to yourself” he said trying to hide his red face. “I’ve seen your build, the attack wouldn’t last long” he began marching towards his room.

"You have no idea what I'm capable of Iskar. I am more than a pretty face. I was never meant to be queen." One thing she wouldn't stand for was being underestimated by some hot, rude, ungrateful visitor.

SumiLumia

"You have no idea what I'm capable of Iskar. I am more than a pretty face. I was never meant to be queen." One thing she wouldn't stand for was being underestimated by some hot, rude, ungrateful visitor.

“Then give up being queen, you focus far too much on being attractive and not as much as your skill” he walked over towards the door and opened it and turned back to her. “Once you have killed with your own hands, you will learn the error of your ways” he said slamming the door behind him.

Who is Who?

“Then give up being queen, you focus far too much on being attractive and not as much as your skill” he walked over towards the door and opened it and turned back to her. “Once you have killed with your own hands, you will learn the error of your ways” he said slamming the door behind him.

"I do not have a choice!" She shouted before he slammed the door in his face. "I would never choose this if I did..." Adi'ola groaned as frustration seeped out of her now that he was gone and she shuffled off to her own room for the night, unfortunately with one thing on her mind. "He finds me attractive?"

SumiLumia

"I do not have a choice!" She shouted before he slammed the door in his face. "I would never choose this if I did..." Adi'ola groaned as frustration seeped out of her now that he was gone and she shuffled off to her own room for the night, unfortunately with one thing on her mind. "He finds me attractive?"

As Iskar went to his room. He went to his sack and pulled oh t a set of gear, some armor. And cloth. He began to put it on and strapped himself up. Like a warrior similar to his father’s armor design. All except for the helmet as he could not swear unto Mec’to yet. So he settled with the hood and wearing a mask made of cloth. Another warrior with similar armor but with the helmet was hanging from the window “ready?” He asked. Iskar strapped throwing knives, a combat knife, and a tomohawk to his belt. His armor was luckily flexible and durable as it could be used in silence. “I’m ready” he replied as he and him dashed out of the window. They climbed the rooftops like ninjas, wanting to get to the top so that they can get an Ariel view of the entire castle and the land to see what it looks like at night.

Who is Who?

As Iskar went to his room. He went to his sack and pulled oh t a set of gear, some armor. And cloth. He began to put it on and strapped himself up. Like a warrior similar to his father’s armor design. All except for the helmet as he could not swear unto Mec’to yet. So he settled with the hood and wearing a mask made of cloth. Another warrior with similar armor but with the helmet was hanging from the window “ready?” He asked. Iskar strapped throwing knives, a combat knife, and a tomohawk to his belt. His armor was luckily flexible and durable as it could be used in silence. “I’m ready” he replied as he and him dashed out of the window. They climbed the rooftops like ninjas, wanting to get to the top so that they can get an Ariel view of the entire castle and the land to see what it looks like at night.

After going back to her own room, washing and dressing for the night, Adi'ola found very quickly that she could not sleep. So much so that she was climbing back out of bed in no time and throwing on a long coat to go out to the river in her sleepwear. Her ancestors did not care what she wore to see them and neither did she. She traveled down a winding stone pathway that led out to the village homes and shops and fanned out into the town square. All of the buildings were relatively low to allow clear views of the sky and the beautiful moon they all loved. Not to mention the snowcapped mountains that could be seen farther out in the distance. It was quiet out with most people inside for the night, but Adi'ola did smile and wave at a couple spending time at the river when she arrived. People came out to bathe in the love of the ancestors all times of day and night. This place was open to all who wish to worship or praise, ask for guidance or offer great thanks. Not only did she drop her coat and kick off her shoes, but the future queen also dropped her night dress and slipped into the water in nothing more than her bindings, letting the cool water wash over her skin, letting the ancestors come to her for whatever they thought she needed. "Goddess Ala please help me survive this."