cashewlater | for @citer

It's my mother tongue. I couldn't speak anything but, when the scholars found me - I had to learn.

[ but he was young, his fresh mind a sponge, and learning had not been difficult. ]

Which Darshan were you?

Spantamad. I imagine you studied with Amurta.

I spent most of my time stalking Amurta herbads, yes. They seemed to study things that fit my interest. In the beginning, I hadn't known the divisions between Darshans - I only wanted to know more about the world.

I heard Haravatat graduates must learn twenty languages before graduation. How many for Spantamad?

Not just Haravatat. Twenty languages must be mastered to graduate from any Darshan; Haravatat students often learn more than twenty.

[ the road meanders, as they chat, and in the distance, cyno can spy the divine tree rising high against the sky. ]

Do you have an interest?

[ tighnari tilts his head up. the sky seems narrow like this, beyond the canopy of trees. but when vissudha field opens up, it will seem wider. it's all a matter of perspective, he knows. ]

I do. There were quite a few books on medicinal herbs, but written in Liyuen. And I would imagine it would be easier to get a handle on fire as a means of healing forest development if I knew Natlan.

Mm. Well, we'll put it on the list, then. I'll bring you some books, and worksheets.

Will you tutor me yourself as well?

If you'd like. I don't mind.

I'd like that. But I'm also aware that you have a day job. Perhaps let me get started on my studies; you can be witness to my progress. It will be grand to have someone to practice with.

As you wish. We'll drop into the House of Daena.

... you spoil me. It makes me wonder when you will say 'no'.

I have no reason to say no. You're deserving, and you never ask too much. Would that I could give you more.

The only thing I want more right now is for you to rest. Four days was a long time away from your home.

Mm.. well, you have me for two entire days. Though I still plan to work on those reports.

As long as you are well-rested while doing so. I've no complaints.

[ his attention turns to the road. to the right, the great valley parts, and the rush of the vissudha careens past great canyons of rock. ]

Hm. The river's lively today; there must've been more rainfall than anticipated in the north. Have there been reports of shroomkin bothering the villages there?

[ tighnari's sharpness never ceases to amaze him. ]

If there have been, I wouldn't know. I've been deep in Avidya Forest for four days. I can check, once we're in the city; I need to stop into headquarters to gather some paperwork, anyway.

I'll come with you. I've never seen your headquarters. I would ask if your subordinates are there, but as the General Mahamatra, are all matra not your subordinates?