Stone's Throw

[Helene Dakesh]

"Is there more I can to do to make your stay more comfortable or help you prepare for the conference?"

[NPCs]

"No, this all seems very well done," Sage assured ne quickly, but then paused. "Well. Are there any time slots that are free?"

[Helene Dakesh]

"Yes. One hour breaks each afternoon, plus six hours overnight for quiet meditation and rest."

[NPCs]

"Ah, good, then at some point, I would--" Sage broke off, giving Helene a narrow eyed squint. "Six hours is insufficient for a mortal to recuperate."

[Helene Dakesh]

"The evening events are outsider-only, while mortals prepare and begin their rest."

[NPCs]

His expression didn't change for a second, then he coughed lightly. "Ah, yes, of course, because you are one such yourself. A mortal."

[Helene Dakesh]

Helene smiles gently. "Samsarans are unlike other mortals in many ways, and I have a strong divine aura for an oracle. It is understandable that you may have forgotten my essential nature. This happens a lot with Tulwaths."

[NPCs]

Yes, right, that's exactly why I though that for a moment. "I hope such has not caused you any significant hardship?"

[Helene Dakesh]

"Oh, no, not overmuch. It does make many outsiders uncomfortable."

[NPCs]

"Does it?" Sage hummed softly, then nodded just a fraction. "For those who do not understand, the distance to the side/away of your soul, combined with the presence/weight your connection to the divine imbues it with, would create a dichotomy. And many beings react poorly to contradictory inputs."

[Helene Dakesh]

A wry smile at that last. "This has been noted."

[NPCs]

"Indeed. Such a puzzling reaction," he agreed with a look of perplexed curiosity. "I cannot understand why myself; if two or more observed facts seem to be contradicting each other, then that simply means there is more learn on the subject."

[Helene Dakesh]

"Precisely! For example, it is true that my time in Draslina helped me tremendously, but it is also true that their methods are at best outdated and at worst actively harmful."

[NPCs]

Sage's expression tightened for a split second. "Quite. I suppose it was something like cauterization; rarely if ever a good medical treatment, but technically a life-saving measure in certain circumstances."

[Helene Dakesh]

"And before Draslina, I was actively bleeding out -- metaphorically, of course. That is why I eventually turned to ritual to perfect my mind and body, which led to the desire for this ritual, the one that is payment for my services here. So it is all connected in the end."