The Commune
Summary
The Commune is the place of origin of Vasso, a location significant enough to be referred to with capital letters ("capital T, capital C") as noted during Session 8. The location appears to be isolated from mainstream commerce and culture, positioned outside the usual trade networks that would bring merchant priests into contact with its residents. The party's reaction to Vasso's mention of the Commune—particularly Safia's immediate intervention to cut off the conversation—suggests it may be information they prefer to keep private or that could identify them in unwanted ways.
Description
Little is known about the physical characteristics of the Commune itself. The location is isolated enough that Vasso had never encountered a merchant priest before meeting the Meat Party Vendor in Session 8, indicating the Commune exists outside standard commercial and religious networks. The Meat Party Vendor's reaction to the name—emphasizing "capital T, capital C"—suggests the Commune is a specific, well-known place rather than simply any communal living arrangement.
History
Session 8
The Commune is first mentioned when Vasso reveals her origin to the Meat Party Vendor. The conversation occurs after the vendor expresses surprise that Vasso has never met a merchant priest. Vasso responds directly: "Well, no, no, I'm from the commune." The vendor's reaction—"Like, like capital T, capital C"—indicates immediate recognition of the name and its significance.
Before Vasso can provide additional details about the Commune, Safia pulls her away from the conversation. Vasso later notes, "Well, I don't know. Safiya probably pulled me away before I could answer that," suggesting Safia deliberately prevented further disclosure about the Commune's nature or Vasso's connection to it.
Notable Features
- Isolated from standard merchant networks and commercial infrastructure
- Remote enough that residents would not encounter merchant priests
- Recognized by name when mentioned, suggesting regional or cultural significance
- Associated with Vasso's background in ways the party considers sensitive information
- Referred to with capital letters ("the Commune"), indicating it is a proper name rather than a generic description