At his encouragement, Nira began to describe the towering forests and the fungus-reef cities and the worm hives, then told him about becoming an acolyte and finally taking the green. Ambassador Otema let Nira talk, and Jora’h appeared fascinated with it all.

He said, “We Ildirans revere our scholars as well as our musicians and poets, artists, glassmakers, and our rememberers. A society that does not remember itself is not worth remembering.” Around him, the other bureaucrats agreed. “I am so glad you two will be here for a long time. A study of our Saga cannot be finished in a few days. Together, we will have time to visit many of our great museums and exhibits.”

Nira’s mind and her senses felt full to bursting. Her eyes, already dazzled by the brilliant sunlight, could not absorb more, no matter how quickly she glanced from side to side. Otema leaned closer and said in a quiet voice, “Don’t gawk, child. You must not embarrass us.”

Flustered, Nira tried to recapture her dignity, but Jora’h said, “Ah, but Ambassador, is that not the best compliment Nira can give—to show how captivated she is by everything she sees?” He reached out to touch Nira’s arm, and she felt an electric thrill run through her emerald skin. “One who lives with a childlike sense of wonder should never be ashamed. Don’t you agree?”

Otema let her expression melt into a smile. “Yes, I agree, Prime Designate. You have reminded me that one who worries too much about formalities and dignity may well miss important parts of life.”

After hours of busy sightseeing during which the stars jockeyed for position in the sky, yet never hinted at approaching twilight, Nira and Otema were finally led to their quarters in the Prism Palace. All of their possessions had been removed from the Voracious Curiosity and meticulously placed in separate rooms, far enough apart to offer privacy yet close enough that Nira and Otema could easily confer with each other. The potted treelings had been divided into two groups, one set in each of their quarters.

Jora’h said, “It is difficult for humans to sleep here because there is no darkness. We have provided sleep masks and darkening shades for your rooms.”

“Thank you, Jora’h,” Nira said, then embarrassed, added, “I mean, Prime Designate.” She felt naive and out of place… yet full of dreams. She had never imagined she would be so fascinated, and now she felt giddy.

Left alone after the long day, she spoke excitedly to Otema, eager to discuss everything they had experienced, but the old ambassador wanted time to herself. Nira returned to her own chambers, where, bursting with impressions and needing to tell someone, she touched the potted treelings. Nira spent the next hour describing everything she had seen, increasing the knowledge held within the worldforest.

60: REMEMBERER DIO’SH

60REMEMBERER DIO’SH