Ashura: Dialogue: Daily

Chat

Ashura
If you have the time, check out the Dragon Shrine on the east side of the village.
I find it’s easier to feel reverent when you’re surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Ashura
Delaila would get on to me for telling you this, but Auni has a serious sweet tooth.
I always try to sneak him a slice of Reth’s berry pie when we serve it at the inn.
Don’t get me wrong, I understand the importance that a good diet has for a healthy body.
But happiness is just as important for a healthy soul.

Ashura
I heard Auni’s been going around telling the Human folk I’m some sort of war hero.
I wouldn’t put too much stock in that… “hero” is a relative term.
I helped the Republic win a war, yes, but I don’t think that the people we fought would be calling me much of a hero.

Ashura
Some might say I strayed from my Path by opening the inn, but most people accept it when a soldier chooses to have a short career.
I prefer to think of opening the inn more as a “retirement hobby” as opposed to a second career.
Eshe might not think of it that way, but if she does think I did anything wrong, she never says so to me.

Ashura
Eshe finds it strange that I spend so much of my time helping the Humans settle in.
If I suddenly found myself appear in a strange new land, I’d want someone to help me too.

(Player)
Thanks for that, by the way.
Ashura
Of course, kid. Helping others is the greatest joy in my life!
And with you Humans around, I have no shortage of joy.

(Player)
Do you and Eshe get along?
Ashura
I try to get along with everyone.
Even though we come from different backgrounds, we still have some things in common.
Between you and me though, she doesn’t tip well.

Ashura
I think you Humans bring with you a chance for us all to learn a little something.
Whether you know it yet or not.

Ashura
It’s been awhile since we’ve gotten the attention of a traveling bard, but a few stop in on their way to Bahari.
You know the nearby town of Bahari is actually a pretty big trade port.
It connects our island province with the rest of Palia.

Ashura
I’m relieved to be working the night shift now.
When I worked the day shift, I found I didn’t get enough time to step out and enjoy the Sun.
Being able to enjoy the outdoors was a reason why I moved to the Valley in the first place.
Besides, Reth seems to prefer to have nights off.

Ashura
the[sic] inn is open 24 hours per sun cycle. It has to be for our guests.
Only difference is whether I'm working the front desk or Reth is.

Ashura
Have you read Jalia Oratuu’s The Lost Ormuu?
It starts out like a traditional morality tale, but then takes a turn for the strange.
I think you’d like it!

Ashura
If you want sports, you’ll have to go into Bahari.
My wife used to drag me there what felt like every cycle to watch the local Roundball team.

Ashura
Soldiers in the Republic earn tattoos based on our rank.
Mine show that I was once a foot soldier, a lieutenant, and a third class general.
I can’t say they are a pleasant reminder...

Ashura
I have a small room above the inn.
It isn’t much, but I find it’s enough to serve my basic needs.

(Player)
Do you ever think about upgrading?
Ashura
No, no. I don’t need more space just to myself.
I’d rather be out here, meeting new people and making new memories.

(Player)
Best suite in the house!
Ashura
Ha, far from it.
If you’re interested in one of our real suites, go chat up Reth.
Then again, not sure why someone who lives a few blocks away needs a room…

Ashura
There’s lots of spooky legends around these parts.
Some say the old well is haunted.
Others say there’s a monster roaming the forest. Nai'o used to scare Auni good with that old tale!

Ashura
If you're looking to have a little fun, there's lot[sic] of ways to enjoy yourself in the valley.
I go Fishing for fun.
Auni goes exploring in the woods.
Badruu can sit and listen to music in the inn for hours.
We have every sort of revelry here, no matter what your personal taste.

Ashura
You wouldn't know it, but my wife and I used to party quite a bit back in our day.
the[sic] inn used to have a happy hour, until Sifuu got a little too happy one night.
I'm still finding pieces of copper wedged in the bar...

Ashura
There are things about my experience in the war I haven’t told anyone.
When I first share those horrors, I want it to be with Sabine...when I see her on the other side of the veil.

Ashura
Eyeing the scar above my eye?
It's...an old war wound.
The full story is a tale for another time.

Ashura
The hereafter is one of the many mysteries that Majiri can't explain.
And though I've not seen the Dragon's face, I've seen his actions.
How else can you explain humanity reappearing again after centuries?

Ashura
Good to see you up and about.
Me? I never really found I could get much sleep.
Not sure if it's my restless mind or my weak knee.
Regardless, I like being up and active - lying in bed lets my mind wander.

Ashura
I really love a nicely prepared Fish, don't you?
Grilled, fried, in a stew...
Now that you've got me talking about food, I'm hungry enough for supper.

Ashura
When I see Sifuu at the bar I always think about the old Majiri proverb...
"Go on a pilgrimage to escape from your small town, but go to a small town bar to escape from yourself."

Ashura
I love this valley. Every day the crickets chirp a new song.
The wind blows the smell of different flowers through the air.
Life is only monotonous to those who aren't looking hard enough.

Ashura
Look over there, it's a Sundrop Lily. Everytime[sic] I see one of those, I can't help but get a smile on my face.
Their abundance was one of the first things I noticed when I first arrived in the valley.

Ashura
If you go to the remembrance site, be sure to pay your respects to Sheera Daiya.
She was Delaila's mother, and Auni's grandmother.
She was a remarkable woman. She learned how to till the mountain land previously thought untillable.

Ashura
I prefer any gift that comes from the heart.
But to be honest, you can't do better than a nice home cooked meal if you want to win me over.
I guess my[sic] sometimes my stomach overpowers my heart!

Ashura
Even though I serve alcohol, I was never much one for drink.
I prefer to face the challenges of life with a clear head, thank you very much.
But if you're looking for a recommendation, Sifuu told me the wildflower mead is fantastic.

Ashura
My knee's feeling a bit better today.
I was able to walk all the way around Crystal Lake, if you can believe it!

Ashura
You can't go looking for something you have to create.
Take me, for example. Some wealthy Majiri might turn their nose up at running an inn, but I get to put smiles on my friends' faces every day.
I can't ask for more than that.

Ashura
The wife and I used to have our own house, just on the outskirts of town.
There were so many memories of her there that it got hard to live in the present.
I was staying at the inn so many nights, I decided to cut my losses and move in permanently.

Ashura
Feel that crisp breeze? Autumn is on its way.
You have to see the valley when the leaves start to fall.
Those beautiful colors are one of the reasons I moved here.

Ashura
I think the cook's serving up his famous "egg surprise" again.
Not sure exactly what the "surprise" part is though, since the dish is entirely eggs.

Ashura
Don't let his "bad boy" act fool you. Reth's a good kid at heart...even[sic] if he's a bit misguided.

Ashura
I was a bit lonely this morning. Thanks for stopping by to entertain an old man.

(Player)
Of course.
Ashura
Do me one more favor, ok?
Catch up with a friend, and make sure they know how much you love them.
Our bodies cannot always be renewed, but our bonds can be.

(Player)
You aren't old.
Ashura
Heh, I am, and I'm not troubled by it.
Sometimes I wish I could go back, but it's not to change anything...
I'd just like one more chance to tell the people I've lost that I love them.

Ashura
You know if Chayne hadn't stepped up to become Sifuu's shepp, I would have done it.
I can't imagine what the village would be like without the two of them.
A town is kind of like a living organism, with each person acting like a piece of the whole.
Sifuu's like the heart of our village.
And Hassian's... the colon, I guess? Calling us all out on sh- dung.
Pardon me, but I almost used some foul language there.

Ashura
Einar was in here saying your Oneness is fishing!
I think he might even be a bit jealous.
If Galdurs can feel jealousy, that is.

Ashura
Years ago, my wife and I came to visit the valley to see the Shimmerfly migration, and we just decided to stay.
Can't say I regret it!

Ashura
Did you know I actually grew up in the capital?
I still have family there.
So I try to make the trip when I can, which isn't easy on account of my bad knee.

Ashura asks The Player Questions

Ashura
I don’t mean to impose, but can I ask if you’ve ever lost anyone?

(Player)
A friend
Ashura
I know how you feel. My wife was also the best friend a man could ask for.
Sometimes I wish I had a best friend around to talk about what happened to my wife...but[sic] I don't.
I suppose that's the downside to having one person play two very important roles like that.

(Player)
A family member
Ashura
I know what that's like.
My wife was the only member of my family I chose for myself. She was the mother of my son.
Sometimes it's hard to remember who we are when we lose someone who defined us.

(Player)
I’d prefer not to say
Ashura
I understand. I won’t press you to share your grief until you’re ready.
It was a long time before I was comfortable discussing Sabine with anyone.

Ashura
How would you like to be remembered?

(Player)
As a hero!
Ashura
I knew a lot of people back who felt that way...
The thing about being the hero is that you'll always be a villain to someone else.

(Player)
As an innovator.
Ashura
That's admirable!
We all stand on the shoulders of giants, and building on their legacy is noble.

(Player)
As a friend.
Ashura
I should hope for the same.
Being a friend can be hard, but it is always worthwhile.
I should write an old friend later today…

(Player)
I’m never going to die.
Ashura
Heh, I remember when I thought the same.
Having your body finally start to betray you is... difficult to accept.
But as long as someone remembers your impact, you're never really gone.

Ashura
Some of the new Humans told me they're having trouble fitting in.
Do you find it easy to make friends?

(Player)
Yeah!
Ashura
You'll have to teach me your skills! I have trouble dropping my guard around new people.
I just overthink the whole thing and wind up with a foot in my mouth.
Not literally, of course.

(Player)
Not really...
Ashura
I find that hard to believe.
When I met you, I could tell you had a way about you that others would love.
Maybe you just need to find the right people...

Ashura
How do you think I could improve the inn?

(Player)
Better food.
Ashura
As much as I give him guff, Reth's the best cook this side of Bahari.
I just wish he'd stick to the actual menu at least one day a week...

(Player)
Bigger rooms!
Ashura
I'd need to take out more than a few loans for that...
Unless we start getting a little more foot traffic through Kilima.
Maybe I need to look into advertising.

(Player)
It's already perfect.
Ashura
The wife would've loved to hear that.
I don't work on things much around here... I like to leave them the way she did.
It makes me feel like she's still here, making an impact.

(Player)
Give me free stuff.
Ashura
Heh, you always have a joke ready.
Honestly, the best things in life are already free.
There's nothing anyone could give you that's as nice as the feeling of a gentle breeze through your hair.

Ashura
Need some advice, kid? You look troubled.

(Player)
I'm struggling to find my people.
Ashura
Information needed

(Player)
I'm looking for purpose.
Ashura
Information needed

(Player)
I'm not sure who I am.
Ashura
Heh, I did my fair share of worrying over that.
Nobody is one thing. People can't be summed up in a sentence... they're more like an epic poem.
In a good story, characters change. Nobody ends up the way they started.

(Player)
Life is great, actually!
Ashura
Information needed

Ashura
One of my favorite parts of running an inn are hearing customer’s wild tales.
The boisterous and boasting make up a good number of our bar patrons…
What are you proudest of yourself for?

(Player)
My bug collection.
Ashura
Auni has told me how much you impressed him.
Even praise from a younger one should be heeded well - they see the world clearest of all of us.

(Player)
My Fishing skills.
Ashura
Einar was in there saying your Oneness is fishing!
I think he might even be a bit jealous.
If Galdurs can feel jealousy, that is.

(Player)
My house designs.
Ashura
I'll have to come by sometime soon!
Maybe you'll give me some ideas about how to spruce up the inn.

(Player)
My sense of adventure!
Ashura
A fond sense of adventure will carry you further in life than anything else.
If you can make an adventure out of a boring day, you’ll never really grow old.

Ashura
Auni was telling me some of my "lingo" was outdated. What's something the kids are saying these days?

(Player)
That's groovy.
Ashura
Groovy. I like it! That's a very "groovy" word.
It was very "groovy" of you to teach me that.

(Player)
Nice drip!
Ashura
I assure you, I never drip anything when I pour a drink.

(Player)
Take several seats.
Ashura
And do what with them? Are you thinking about throwing a party at the inn?

Ashura
Everyone in this village seems to have a special talent with something...
I'm not much of an artist, so I always said mine was with people.
What kind of art do you like to make?

(Player)
Something with paint.
Ashura
Painting can be very therapeutic!
I've thought about hanging some of mine in the bar, but I like having something just for me...

(Player)
Something with music.
Ashura
We'll have to look into getting you an instrument.
Music can be very powerful... it stirs something in the heart, and mind.

(Player)
Something with actors!
Ashura
I'd quite like to see a play from you! Sometimes I can hardly leave my seat after a good one...
I wonder what they were like back in Human times.

(Player)
I'm not very good at art either...
Ashura
Nonsense! "Natural talent" is a myth people tell themselves to justify quitting.
You can do something you're bad at if you love it!
It's that love and dedication that eventually makes you talented.

Ashura
Are you much of a fighter, ((Player))?

(Player)
I'd fight for my friends.
Ashura
That's a noble cause, maybe the most noble of all...
But if my time at war taught me one thing, however, it's that everyone has a noble cause.
You can't justify certain things, no matter why you do them.

(Player)
I'm not sure I'd be any good...
Ashura
Information needed

(Player)
I don't like violence...
Ashura
Heh, you and me both, kid.
Sometimes it's inevitable, but we have to do everything we can to prevent it.

(Player)
I love fighting!
Ashura
Information needed

Ashura
You've been living in the village a while now, what do you think?

(Player)
I want to know what's out there...
Ashura
The world is a complicated place.
You stay in one place too long, eventually you realize you may be missing out on things you never even knew about.
But once you move on... you miss everything you left behind.
Hearts are a lot better at holding on than letting go.

(Player)
This place is home!
Ashura
Glad to hear you feel that way. This place... it's special.
Everyone here goes out of their way to make others feel respected.
Not everywhere is like that, you know...

Ashura
I have to admit. Night always unsettles me a bit. How do you feel about the dark?

(Player)
It scares me a little.
Ashura
Me too. My worst memories happened in the dark.
And it's hard for me not to picture myself reliving them when night falls.

(Player)
I'm not scared of anything!
Ashura
You're luckier than I am then.

(Player)
I actually like the dark.
Ashura
Really? I'm glad you can find beauty in the unknown.

Ashura
I've been thinking about adding a few upgrades to the inn to make my Human guests more comfortable.
What do you think people would like?

(Player)
Restrooms.
Ashura
I suppose the inn could use some...facilities. I'll have to look into that.

(Player)
More art.
Ashura
Yes, I should look into buying more art.
...Now where would I get paintings? Tish's store never seems to sell any.

(Player)
A 227-piece orchestra.
Ashura
I don't know if that would fit.

(Player)
Nothing, It's perfect just like it is.
Ashura
I appreciate your kind words, but if you ever think of some suggestions, don't hesitate to let me know.

Specific Time

In the morning

Ashura
‘Scuse me... if I seem... short of breath.
Just getting my morning exercise.
The healer says its important to get the blood flowing to my knee.

Ashura
Good morning! Hope you're taking the chance to seize the day.
After all, you can't make the best of today tomorrow.

At night

Ashura
Night is a magical time in the astrological cycle. Keep your eye out for glowing flora and fauna.
I’ve always been enchanted by the abundance of both bioluminescence and magiluminescence you can find here.

Specific Location

At the fishing pond

Ashura
I fish more for the relaxation than the results to tell you the truth.
I don't remember the last time I actually caught anything.

At the Ormuu's Horn Inn

Ashura
This old inn has been my home for the better part of the past few decades.
I wouldn’t have it any other way.
The memories I made under this roof are far better than those I made outside it.

Ashura
Did you know this broom used to be a sword?
Yes, I repurposed what was once an instrument of war to be an instrument of service.
I keep it around to remind myself even the most specifically built tool can find a new use.

Ashura
Many years ago I vowed never to pick up a blade again.
And I would advise you to think long and hard before you pick up one yourself.
Violence once done cannot be undone.

Ashura
Reth's taking the night off, so I made my mother's favorite recipe. You'll have to guess what it is.

Ashura
We could play a game of cards if you want.
I’m not very good at it though. Hodari used to beat me 9 out of 10 times.
I think that’s why Auni likes challenging me so much. We’re at about the same skill level.

Ashura
You can tell some of the furniture around here is starting to show its age.
My wife used to take care of that kind of stuff.
I guess I’ve been having a hard time finding the heart to do it since she passed.

Ashura
Personally, my favorite bard is Taruk the Gleamer. His work is a bit...irreverent for some.
But I like how his lyrices aren't afraid to make light of Majiri high society.
He's quite the looker too.
If I were a younger man, I might be inclined to become one of those folks who follows him on his tours of the twelve provinces.

Friendship Level 3-5

Level 3 or Higher

Ashura
It's funny. I find myself sharing a lot more with you than I do with others in these chats.
And it's not as if I don't have other friends.
I mean, Auni and I have always been close. I always have a good time with Sifuu and Badruu.
But it's always you I spill my guts too.[sic] Make of that what you will.
Maybe it's just nice to get an outsider's perspective.

Ashura
When my son was a child, he was always so adventurous. He loved to go climbing and hiking with his mom.
I suppose it’s no surprise he wanted more than this little village could offer.

Ashura
You know sometimes I see a bit of my son in Auni.
They can both be...ambitious, which I know is a dirty word here in Palia.
Though I never saw it as an entirely bad thing.
For Nuroo or for Auni.

Ashura
Reth doesn’t really know much about my family situation.
The one thing about Reth that’s very Majiri is how private he is.
He thinks if he doesn’t ask you to share anything about yourself, it means he won’t have to share anything about himself either.

Ashura
I've been praying to the Dragon for the right words to say to my son when I see him.
Sadly, they haven't come yet.

Ashura
Mail in Palia is unpredictable, so I have no idea when Nuroo will get my letter.
Not every village has a courier as reliable as our Auni.

Ashura
I feel like what has happened to Nuroo is my fault.
He wanted to follow in my footsteps and follow our family’s Path in military service.
I tried to forbid it, as military training requires family approval.
He went above my head and got approval from my father. After that, I refused to talk to him for years.

Ashura
Sabine and I loved our son so much, we didn't feel like a second child could compare.
Though, that's probably silly. If we'd had another child, I'm sure we would have loved them just as much.

Ashura
My son’s got a life in the Capital, and I wouldn’t want to disrupt that.
Though it would be nice if he were to visit once in a while.

Ashura
You're the closest friend I've had in awhile.
The last person I was this close to, other than Sabine, he, well, he...
He passed away a long time ago.
His name was also Nuroo. I named my son after him to honor his memory.

Level 4

Ashura
I hope to be able to make the visit to see Nuroo soon.
I'm saving up my pennies for a proper carriage. My knees couldn't take the journey on horseback.
But I can't imagine it will be too much longer.

Ashura
I want to tell you what happened during the war, but I can't force myself to do it.
At least, not today.

Level 5

Ashura
Nuroo asked me the other day if I might marry again.
I hadn't really thought about it.
But I'm thinking maybe one day. The humans coming to the village have given me new life and new purpose.
One of these days I might be able to find it in me to move on.
I think Sabine would want me to find happiness again.

Ashura
Nuroo sent me a picture of Lily today.
She was eating a lemon for the first time, and her nose scrunched right up.
She's just cute as a button. She takes after Nuroo.
I can't wait to meet her in person, but these pictures give me the hope I need to greet everyday as a new opportunity.

Ashura
I've been thinking about giving my grand-daughter a gift. What do you think I should send her?

(Player)
A hand carved bowl.
Ashura
Nuroo did say she was just starting to eat solids. That's such a lovely idea.

(Player)
A lily! Like her name.
Ashura
Wonderful idea! Sundrop lilies are local to Kilima and Nuroo won't be able to find them all the way in the Capital.

(Player)
Maybe something pretty, like a music box?
Ashura
Oh, I think I saw just the thing at Tish's shop the other day. I'll have to go by and see if she still has it.

(Player)
A joke book. It's never too early.
Ashura
A joke book does seem a little...advanced for a toddler. But perhaps I could get her a nice picture book instead.

Follow up to previous dialogue

Ashura
Nuroo just wrote me back and Lily loved her gift.
Thank you, ((Player)), for the suggestion. You always have the best ideas.

Higher Friendship With Other Villagers

With Reth

Ashura
I've seen you going in and out of Reth's store room.
You look like you're surprised that I know of it.
Yes, I know he has a place downstairs where he keeps a few things, but don't worry, I've never been one to snoop where I'm not welcome.

Ashura
I'm glad Reth has someone special like you in his life.
He needs someone to straighten him out.
Just like Sabine did with me.

With Subira

Ashura
So, how do you think the Watcher is enjoying her room?

(Player)
She loves it so much, she never leaves!
Ashura
Ha Ha! Well, I think she's still getting settled.
There's a lot of work to do out there. Be glad she can make time for a break.

(Player)
She said it was too fancy.
Ashura
I thought that might be the case. The Watchers I met in the war were practical folk.
Never liked being fussed over. But try explaining that to Eshe.

(Player)
She loves it! It's the best she's ever stayed in.
Ashura
Really? Well, I'll be. I guess Eshe was right.
I thought she might think it was too fancy. The Watchers I met in the war were practical folk. Never liked being fussed over.

(Player)
She appreciates the work we put in.
Ashura
That's a nice way of sayin' she didn't care for it.
Don't worry, I expected as much. The Watchers I met in the war were practical folk. Never liked being fussed over.
But try explaining that to Eshe!

With Kenli

Ashura
I'm glad you've taken the mayor under your wing.
He may seem like he's in a position of power, but I don't think he's ever made a real choice in his life.
...Unless you count deciding between petunias and daisies for his garden.
Maybe seeing your bravery will inspire him to do something different.

Associated with Quests

After Friendship Level 2 Quest A Bouquet of Sunshine

Ashura
I miss my wife every second of every day.
Though I feel some seconds more sharply than I do others.

Ashura
My wife was...sunshine personified.
If anyone in the village was feeling down, all they had to do was talk to Sabine to feel warm again.

Ashura
You don’t have to feel sorry for Sabine, you know.
She’s gone past the veil into the Dragon’s Realm.
Save your sympathy for those of us left behind.

Ashura
You know Sabine's body is not actually buried at her remembrance site.
She was taken to the wellspring on top of the mountain, like all Majiri dead.
It's just...most of us can't easily make that trip.
So we like to have a site closer where we can remember those who died.

Ashura
If my my[sic] wife had trouble with anything, it was knowing how to slow down.
She passed from a completely preventable climbing accident.
If she'd only taken a few more seconds to check her harness, everything would have been fine...

During Friendship Level 5 Quest Sins of the Father

Ashura
You still gatherin' up Sabine's favorite thing?
I don't mean to hurry you. I'm just worried I'll lose my nerve if I don't do it soon.

After Friendship Level 5 Quest Sins of the Father

Ashura
I sent Nuroo the letter explaining what I did.
I also told him about the man he was named after.
You see, my best friend, Nuroo, died during the same mission.
I thought naming my son after him would be a good way to honor him.
That is... until my son declared a military Path.
Then all I could do was worry that my boy would turn out just like his namesake.

Ashura
I heard back from Nuroo...
Not only did he forgive me from keeping what I did a secret.
But he said he understood my hesitancy to accept his Path.
I don't know how to thank you for helping me open up... but thank you.
Burdens always feel just a little lighter when shared.

Ashura
I'm sorry I sent you to get a book instead of opening up to you.
It's just, some things are so hard to say out loud.
Even to a trusted friend.

After Quests Another Way, Catch a Falling Star and Super Snooper

Ashura
I've noticed Tish, Reth, and Zeki spending a lot more time together.
You wouldn't have anything to do with that would you?
You know what, don't tell me, I'll let those young'uns keep their secrets.

Artifact Reactions

After donating Wartorn Horn

Ashura
Elouisa came in here the other day with an old Umbraan war horn.
I didn't mean to overreact, but something about the sound just send[sic] me back to the old days.
Fighting underground in lightless tunnels...
We had no idea when we'd come out...or even if we'd come out.