Ask Ehda chees!

[Narpoo]

Ehda chees!​

”We must do something!” Narpoo shouted, thumping his spear on the floor as he argued with the Elders. ”Time and time again the Duloks cross the boundary into Sharp Stone Territory, and more tribes besides - and we do nothing.” he continued, earning a series of annoying grumbles from the assembled council. ”And you would suggest war? Because of some stolen, well, some stolen what? Water?” came the gruff reply from one of their numbers, a grey-furred Ewok wielding a skull-topped staff.

”It is water now, but what will they want next? What if one of the villagers resists? We’ve already seen Cheeka beaten for her resistance -” he referenced a recent event, in which his own sister had been attacked by the Duloks for refusing to hand over her own water. None of the Chieftans looked overly impressed. He huffed, shook his head, and huffed some more as the Chieftans dismissed him so they could ‘consider’ what he had said.

Turning on his heels, Narpoo stormed out of the hut, and sat down in a sulk on the walkway outside the Council of Elders hall at the heart of the village.

More indecision, more inaction! Narpoo had been trying to get some more support for his plan to increase the defences of the village, ahead of what he thought was a period of great unrest in the Galaxy. Like it or not, Endor was part of the ‘Free World Alliance’, which was in a direct and open war with the latest iteration of the Sith, the same sith who had met their end over their world all those years ago.

”Argh!” he kicked a pot in frustration at the Councils inaction and yelped as a sharp shot of pain whizzed up his foot. Today was only going to get worse, surely?

OOC - @Die Shize here we go. I have avoided doing Ewokese as it’s just the two of us, so please assume all dialogue to be in that tongue.

 

[Dakka Skoochee]

Spoiler: Music OOC

Dakka was not from this village. Sharp Stone was not his home. Okirakak was. However, his own village neighbored this one close enough, isolated though his was, and that was the issue. His people needed help, and the one time a Guardian could step away from the gate was to beseech the gate of another.

Approaching the Elders’ hall in the hopes of establishing a united front, Dakka heard an Ewok yelp upon kicking a pot. He looked at the pot, the foot, the Ewok, shook his head. “Kicking pots is no good. When angry, it is better to throw it. Observe.”

Unless interrupted, Dakka would pick the pot up and throw it on the walkway so that it smashed. In his village, pot-throwing was an event held monthly. “I am Dakka Skoochee of Okirakak. Tell me, are your Elders accepting audience? I have much desire to speak with them. The Dulok menace must be stopped. Now.”


@Nor'baal

 

[Narpoo]

"Good luck getting them to listen! I've been told to wait whilst they deliberate, again." Narpoo replied as a member of another tribe came up to him, demonstrating as he did so, a considerable command of the much-revered art of 'pot-throwing'. "Dulok have taken our water, some of it anyway, in the past few days, and the Chieftans do nothing!" he lamented, facing the newcomer, and extending his right paw in welcome.

Given this newcomer was facing some issues with the Dulok, maybe a partnership would emerge? Together they could face the Dulok menace, no? "Narpoo, of the Sharp Stone Tribe." he introduced himself, hoping the newcomer would return the favour. He did not recognise his scent, or the colour of the markings he had, or, for that matter, anything of him.

"Have you travelled far?" he asked, searching for hints as to where this newcomer had come from.

 

[Dakka Skoochee]

Spoiler: Music OOC [Recurring]

Dakka sighed through his nose at his fellow Ewok’s assessment of his own elders. They do not sound promising. But it is too soon yet. “Far enough,” he answered Narpoo. “My village rests at mountain foothills upon plains, surrounded by forest. Mine is the Wild Twilight Tribe.”

It was plausible that Narpoo would not have heard of either, though he or anyone in this village may have. The Wild Twilights maintained trade regularly enough but were otherwise secluded and kept to themselves. It truly was a rarity for one of their gate guardians to venture this far out. But a must and an honor.

“My village also hugs a river right beside it. Water is not our issue but food is. Hmm…” Dakka stroked the fur on his lip. “I could tell you more but may as well tell your Elders too. Shall you take me to them, Narpoo? Shall we try again?” He looked around. "Or throw more pots?"


@Nor'baal

 

[Narpoo]

"Well, you are a visitor from another tribe. It would be rude for the Council to decline you an audience, no?" a mischievous smile followed as Narpoo gestured for his new friend, Dakka, to follow him back into the Chieftans Hall, the session still in full swing. As they entered, one of the Elders clocked that Narpoo was not alone, and motioned for him to speak.

Naturally, the troublesome Ewok did so with glee. "This is Dkka, of the Wild Twilight Tribe." some of the Elders nodded, the name being one they must have heard of before. Narpoo was reminded once again that there was a reason the tribe had Elders in the first place - age, in Ewok terms, brought wisdom.

"No doubt, he can explain why he is here, far better than I. However, Dakka also speaks of trouble with the Dulok, they have taken food, not water." he added, causing a mild degree of concern from around one-third of the gathered Elders. Whatever Dakka chose to say, would need to go some way in convincing them to take action, or so it would seem.

OOC - Rolled 7/20, so around 1/3 persuaded.

 

[Dakka Skoochee]

Spoiler: Music OOC [Recurring]

Dakka liked the nature of this Narpoo. He had a feeling the two Ewoks would grow to get along just fine. In the hall, he did not overlook how some of the Elders recognized the name of “Wild Twilight”. Given that the tribe had only one settlement, they surely knew of Okirakak no less.

Before he spoke, Dakka would thud the butt of his spear upon the floor, a custom, provided he was permitted into the hall armed in the first place. “Your tribesman speaks truth, Elders of Sharp Stone. My village, Okirakak, has recently fallen prey to the Duloks.”

He would let a moment pass for that truth to sink in, measuring the face of each elder present. “We of the Wild Twilight are not many. For this, we defend our home closely. I, Dakka Skoochee, am a Gate Guardian. To leave my post would otherwise lead to exile.”

He let that sink in too. “Yet, my own Elders have given me a mission: Reach the gates of other homes, appeal to their owners, ask for help. You see, we can no longer guard our gates on our own. The Duloks pluck from our plains, forage in our forest, reap from our river, and one night were so brazen as to steal from our village itself. A couple of my tribe were...killed.”

Dakka scrunched his face, fury fueling his speech. “We are not alone. Word travels of the same pains and problems that the Duloks bring to other territories. The question, elders, is…are we alone?”


@Nor'baal

 

[Narpoo]

"Why is this a concern for Sharp Stone? We have never faced such problems from the Dulok - not to mention, your tribe has never aided us in my lifetime!" one of the Elders retorted almost immediately, snapping back at Dakka, much to Narpoos disappointment. The Elders were always like this, stuck in their ways and reluctant to do anything they considered 'change'.

"This is proof, Elder Twenee, that the Duloks are capable of more than the mere theft of water! They have killed our kinsmen from WIld Twilight - and you think perhaps they will not do so here?" he replied to the Elder, who merely grumbled and shuffled in his seat. Some of the others nodded in agreement with Narpoo, coming around to the fact that the Dulok clearly were on the move once again.

"There are other villages in our position, and they have chosen to act - we must do likewise." Narpoo added, his voice rising as he pleaded for the Elders to take notice "I ask the Elders to let me go with Dakka, at least, and see myself what the Duloks are doing in the woods near Wild Twilight."

Surely, the Elders would approve - even if just to get Narpoo out of the village for a few days?

 

[Dakka Skoochee]

It was all Dakka could do to sigh through his nose, grumbling on the inside. Foolish elders of Sharp Stone indeed! Sharp Stone might be sharp but some of these leaders needed their minds sharpened. Fortunately, Narpoo came to Dakka’s defense. A true Ewok!

There was a moment of silence. For Dakka, it lasted a thousand moments too long, too tense, as the Gate Guardian from Okirakak could only stand still and hope for the best. The Elders looked at one another, a couple leaning in to whisper in each other’s ears, and then came their verdict.

“Very well. Sharp Stone is in no position of our own to offer aid. We must look to ourselves at this time. However, we shall permit Narpoo to accompany this…Dakka…to learn more of the Dulok threat, such as it is.”

By the tone of that Elder’s voice, he seemed just as content to be rid of the both of them more than anything. Oh well, it was enough for Dakka. Having a Sharp Stone Ewok report to this village of the truth might get these old fools to finally act!

“On behalf of the Wild Twilight Tribe, I, Dakka Skoochee, THANK YOU!” It was a customary thanks, not terribly enthusiastic, just loud. With that, the two Ewoks left the hall. Dakka turned to his new companion.

“Thank you also, Narpoo of Sharp Stone. This is not quite the outcome I was hoping for but it is a start. Your village needs water. Mine needs food. We both need protection from the Duloks.” He looked around as though looking at all of Endor. “No, we all do.”


@Nor'baal

 

[Narpoo]

Finallt the Elders came to something resembling an actionable decision, and Narpoo smiled. He was allowed to go with Dakka, and see what the Dulok threat was - at this stage that was much more than he had expected. However, should the two of them be able to prove the threat was real, who knows? Perhaps an alliance between their Tribes was on the cards?

Such a union would be of great benefit to the Ewoks.

He left the hall in Dakkas wake, as they headed off to prepare for what was to happen. "Exactly. The Duloks have gotten away with far too much for far too long. We return with proof of what they have been doing, and the Elders must act!" Narpoo enthused, as he led Dakka to one of the exits of the village, where they could pause to gather supplies for their journey.

"Take what you need, food, water and more. We will need it for our mission!" he added, enthusiasm rather getting the best of him.

 

[Dakka Skoochee]

Spoiler: Music OOC

Dakka rummaged through the supplies on offer, searching through this basket and that pot. He didn’t like the look of one pot so raised it for a smash when an Ewok quartermaster promptly halted him. Frowning, Dakka left the pot alone and left the hut with a full pack.

“We go now.” It was less of a command and more of a reality as the pair of brave adventurers ventured bravely into the wilds of Endor.

Dakka had a bow and quiver on his back, a knife at his hip and a spear in his hand. His backpack was fully stocked with food and water, cooking utensils, repair tools and all manner of goodies. Though, the best way to survive in the wild was to live off the land itself. Eventually the duo’s provisions from the village would run out.

“West is the way. Or is that east?” Dakka pointed as the pair reached a hill that looked out to trees yonder, pinching his chin. “HMM the mountains beyond. We must travel days and nights to reach Okirakak. YES.” He wasn’t sure how often Narpoo ventured out of his village but he hoped it was more than he did. He had gotten lost on the way to Sharp Stone territory a few times.

“On the way, Friend Narpoo, we shall tell stories, sing songs, dance around campfires and skewer fine meat to roast. It is known!” Dakka would slap a friendly hand on his companion’s shoulder and shake him vigorously.


@Nor'baal

 

[Narpoo]

With a series of grunts and huffs, Narpoo sorted out his assorted gear for the journey ahead. His spear, knife and bow - naturally - a set of rocks of varying types, his sling, and a small amount of food and water, alongside a roll of boar-hide with which to fashion a makeshift shelter. What else would an Ewok adventure need!

"This way." Narpoo reminded Dakka, drawing his attention to the direction the sun was moving in, which would serve as an indicator as to which direction they travelled in. Narpoo could tell he was a guardian, not a hunter. Dakka was in his element, no doubt, in combat, defending known turf and more. Narpoo however was at home in the field, in the elements, as a hunter!

Together they would make quite the team.

Heading out, he kept pace with Dakka. "We should be able to keep heading West, that will lead us to the Loopa Lake, where we can either go across, should the boatman be there, or around, which will add a few days to our journey, if the boatman is away." Narpoo drew on his knowledge of the area, as they continued on their journey.

 

[Dakka Skoochee]

Spoiler: Music OOC [Recurring]

Dakka considered Looka Lake, nodding as if he understood how everything worked already while having really not much of an idea beyond his own village and such.

“Then I hope the boatman is there. I enjoy the outside, the unknown, but the sooner we reach my village, the better.” He knew Narpoo felt the same way.

On the way, Dakka reached into his pack and plucked out a stick of jerky, offering one to his companion. He hadn’t eaten all that much on coming to Sharp Stone, so invested was he in beseeching the Elders for, well, what ultimately proved to be not much help.

Oh, but Narpoo is a fine Ewok indeed! That was truth if ever it could think. Could the trees? Dakka thought on that as they traversed, stroking bark in passing as though it ought to feel different than the trees from home.

“You are a hunter, Narpoo? Do you leave your village much? What beasts have you encountered? Do you speak to the firefolk? Have any children? A last name?”


@Nor'baal

 

[Narpoo]

When the questions came pouring in, Narpoo fell silent, sombre almost. He did have a daughter, she just wasn't here anymore. He was torn as to how to respond.

"I am a hunter yes, normally I am outside of the village. I only return to deliver by a quarry. Over the years I've seen a wide range of beasts, including the fire-folk." Narpoo replied before a sullen look once again crossed his features.

He could trust Dakka with his secret, he was sure of that. But, still, it didn't feel right to tell him the truth of his family, the fact that his daughter has been taken many moons ago. "Kneeva." he look away from Dakka, unable to meet his gaze "Kneeva Chirpa, my daughter. She's ten this year." he stopped himself from going any further, preferring ambiguity to clarity in this instance.

 

[Dakka Skoochee]

Spoiler: Music OOC [Recurring]

Dakka would not consider himself to be the smartest Ewok on Endor, certainly not in Okirakak, but he was smart enough to put two and two together at Narpoo’s reaction after Dakka’s final questions. They involved children and a last name.

Narpoo Chirpa answered, explained, and had a listening ear. The two Ewoks would be adventuring together for quite some time; to the village, around the village, from the village, then some and more to come. When one spoke, the other would listen. This is the way.

Dakka thought of the way and more as the two shuffled their furry feet through grass and leaves. Narpoo had a way about him, a hunter’s way, but just as much knew how to keep a secret. If he was not willing to share that with Dakka, by all rights a stranger if a companion, well, the latter would pry no further.

“Nice name. Kneeva.” Dakka nodded. Their gazes need not meet. “Firefolk!” Topic changed as swiftly as the wind carried the arrow of conversation. “The Wisties!” He clapped, took a breath, sang.

“Wisties! Wisties!
Watch them swarm, see them spin!
See them flash, watch them fly!
Wings so warm, makes you grin!
Dart and dash, light the night!
Wisties! Wisties!"


@Nor'baal

 

[Narpoo]

Narpoo afforded himself the luxury of a little skip as Dakka sang a traditional song of the Endorians. Truth be told, he had not considered that their path would take them to the fire-folk, perhaps they to would join in the Ewoks quest to make Endor a safe haven?

The fire-folk were even smaller than the Ewoks, but powerful addition to any hunters belt. Narpoo was sure there was a fire-folk settlement nearby, a small one at that. "East of here, that's where we could find them." he remarked, pointing to a nearby hill, beneath which they would find a small cave, teaming with the fire-folk they saught.

OOC - I see someone has seen the Ewok films!

 

[Dakka Skoochee]

Spoiler: Music OOC [Recurring]

Friend Narpoo had almost broken Dakka’s song and dance with the very prospect of…finding the firefolk! He had not even begun to entertain such an idea.

Ohh, but Friend Narpoo is versed indeed! Well-traveled, yes, yes, he knows the way! So, on they went, those two friends, and if they were not yet, well, they soon would be, oh yes indeed.

Dakka kept his spear held tight, not so much afraid that the Wisties would burn him then eat him, or eat him then burn him, as just being nervous about entering their very own cave of which they called home.

He had only witnessed these creatures from afar, from the fields of his own home, except when they came into the village to greet its Ewoks at night. But…a cave of them? Never before have I ever—

“UGGA BUH!” Dakka jerked his spear toward the entrance of that cave, glimpsing the fluttering lights that danced in a song of their own. He quickly lowered it, meaning no harm amid his surprise, and trusted the more experienced Narpoo to lead the way. Please don’t eat Friends Narpoo or Dakka, O please O please O please.


@Nor'baal

 

[Narpoo]

After what seemed (and felt like) an age, Narpoo followed up after his friend. He had stayed still for a short while, lost in thought*, and concerned as to what their interaction with the Wisties could lead to.

Narpoo snapped out of his contemplation, however, when he heard his friend shouting in terror. He ran toward the source of the noise, nearly barrelling into the other Ewok, and raising his spear as well. "Neepa!" he growled at the cave entrance, before cautiously lowering his spear and sniffing the air.

He didn't smell anything that would indicate danger.

With caution, he stepped closer to the cave, gesturing for Narpoo to follow him. "Careful now," he added, gently stepping over the threshold of the cave with his eyes closed (silently praying nothing would eat him) "...there, see." he opened his eyes, pleased that he was still alive, and jumped with joy, before running further into the cave.

*forgetting to post

 

[Dakka Skoochee]

Spoiler: Music/Ambience

Dakka was a tad apprehensive, despite his excitement, having never ventured into a cave of Wisties before. Narpoo seemed the more versed but was no less cautious, though that didn’t keep the Ewok from running forth.

“Acha acha. Tyateeeeeeee!” ["Okay okay. Come!"] Dakka bolted after his new best friend.

Despite the dancing lights at the maw of the cave, chasing after them proved futile and led to darkness; the firefolk had just as quickly flew away from the Ewoks chasing after them. Neither meant the other harm, that much felt certain, and honestly the Wisties felt more like guides than guardians.

“Tread lightly!” Dakka cautioned Narpoo no less. “I like my fur where it is! I have heard that fire sprites burn brightly and…and…heatedly…when angered.” The very notion made his hands tighten around the haft of his spear. “There!”

Just ahead, a group of flashing, spinning, dizzying Wisties had gathered before two tunnels, seemingly waiting for their guests. Then they disappeared down one. It was a sure sign to follow.

“Veek t’hesh!” Quick and quiet indeed. That was the way.


@Nor'baal

 

[Narpoo]

Narpoo slowed down, keeping pace with Dakka as they cautiously made their way into the Wisties lair. A few of them fluttered past them, keeping their distance, flitting up close, before darting back, up and around the roof of the cave. When the group moved down one of the two tunnels in the fork, neither Ewok wasted time nor followed suit.

The tunnel was dark, but oddly - very dry. For a place so far beneath the earth, Narpoo had expected the tunnel to be dripping, water to pool around their feet. But no, the Wisties had kept the entire place dry, perhaps through the natural heat the exuded?

Regardless, Narpoo and Dakka followed them, coming out into a large cavern, filled with simply thousands upon thousands of the tiny fluttering creatures. Narpoo stopped dead in his tracks, as from the large white-barked tree in the heart of the cavern, one of the Wisties approached them in a direct line, others making way for it's approach.

It moved closer, stopping mere inches from Dakkas face, before squeaking something neither of them understood.

 

[Dakka Skoochee]

Spoiler: Music/Ambience [Recurring]

Dakka was at a loss for words. He wanted to open his mouth and greet his hosts but found himself only able to gasp. His eyes grew wide as the lead Wistie approached, one whom he presumed to be the chieftain or firefolk equivalent, and was mesmerized by what it said.

The Ewok understood nothing of it, of course; the language was like lyrics, a whispered song that gave his own heart wings, and it was all he could do to stand there and hope to hear more.

The Wistie hovered before Dakka’s face a moment longer. It was hard to tell if he was supposed to respond. But what can I say to such wonder? It moved along, repeated its speech to Narpoo, floating mere inches before his face too.

Meanwhile, Dakka drifted his gaze from the Wisties to the white tree. He took a step forward but caught himself. He did not want to insult or threaten so he simply pointed. “Is that…” Could they even understand him. “Is that…your sacred tree?”

It certainly was something. Many Wisties were flying around it just like they did at night near Okirakak. It was doubly hard to tell, then, if the Wisties were glowing around the tree or if the tree itself was glowing.


@Nor'baal