"Just don't say goodbye, okay, Mister Gurashi?"

Great Southern Highway adjacent to Glomdoring Forest. (road).
The shadowy outline of a twisted forest casts a dark gloom here. Thick dreamy cotton clouds are spread across the firmament. Running parallel to the Southern Mountains, the highway meanders through the lower boundaries of the basin of civilization. The ground is smoothed by time, by feet, by beasts of burden, all of whom continually press down upon any vegetation who dares to try to shoot a sprout up in the path of commerce. The highway passes next to Glomdoring Forest, its enormous blackened trees twisted and warped by some tortuous power. The air is thick with the fecund smell of decay. An uneasy sense of foreboding hangs in the air.
You see exits leading southeast, south, and northwest.

You ponder the situation.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Bizirik, the leothin, "O-K, Bizi... we were here last... so where would .. her? She? Have gone next?"

Bizirik, the leothin stares implacably at you.

You have emoted: Gurashi returns the stare with equal blankness.

Faintly buzzing, you ask Bizirik, the leothin, "What did you see?"

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

Great Southern Highway passing the Grey Moors. (road).
The shadowy outline of a twisted forest casts a dark gloom here. Thick dreamy cotton clouds are spread across the firmament. Running parallel to the Southern Mountains, the highway meanders through the lower boundaries of the basin of civilization. The ground is smoothed by time, by feet, by beasts of burden, all of whom continually press down upon any vegetation that dares to try to shoot a sprout up in the path of commerce. To the south, the bleak expanses of the Grey Moors stretch outwards, endless grasslands broken only by the wisps of mist that shuffle across their surface. A statue of Crumkane stands here, memorialising His noble spirit. There are 2 lovelorn mugwumps here.
You see exits leading east and southwest.

Suddenly a white vixen slinks out of the vegetation here, curling herself about your feet.

You have emoted: Gurashi opens his mouth as if to say something to himself, then stops, looking down in disbelief.

Staring down at his feet, you say, "...uhm ...hello!"

Mahin wraps her tails about you, laughing in a cascade of little yips.

You blink.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks at the many tails, antennae bobbing, expression dazed. "Er," He seems at a loss for words, throwing a helpless look towards his leothin, who looks just as confused as he does.

Mahin sniffs you, trying to decipher just what that smell emanating from you is.

look mahin
Her lithe frame muscled and lean, this fox is covered with a thick coat of fur as white as unblemished snow, touched with a rose tint that highlights her ears, her four dainty paws, and the shaggy tip of each of her nine luxurious tails. Narrow grey lines scroll aimlessly across her vulpine face, giving it a depth of expression unknown to normal foxes. Her cunning eyes are diverging colours, one sky blue and the other warm brown, and contain a boundless intelligence that leaves the distinct impression that she has seen much and missed nothing.
Mahin has an air of extreme strength.

You blink a few times and stare at Mahin in confusion.

Tilting his head, you exclaim to Mahin, "You were in trees!"

Her blue and brown eyes twinkling, Mahin says, "Kephera-kin. Mmmm."

You blink.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Mahin, "Oh, er, - Gurashi."

You have emoted: Gurashi starts to offer a hand, then pauses, considering the vixen's paws.

Mahin rises up on her hind paws, reaching out with one of her front ones. But she gives you a sideways grin and licks your hand with her very rough tongue instead. Then she drops down on all floors and laughs again in a cascade of little yips.

You have emoted: Gurashi bristles as his hand is licked, antennae drooping.

You have emoted: Gurashi watches Mahin drop, eyes wide in shock. "Er..." He tries to speak, but fails to find words again.

Bizirik, the leothin sniffs Mahin, trying to decipher just what that smell emanating from her is.

Bizirik, the leothin lets out a melodic serious of chirps and trills, tilting its head curiously at the vixen.

Slinking in a slow figure of eight between your legs, Mahin says, "Mahin."

Nervously wringing his hands together, you say, "Mahin. I see."

Faintly buzzing, you ask, "Nice to meet you, Mahin. What can .... do for?"

Smiling nervously, you say, "Came all the way to Glomdoring, and do not think are ... from our Woods.."

Mahin curls her snout and stops, sitting down primly a few feet before your feet. "Oh. I just wanted to come see what this Gurashi is all about."

You blink.

You have emoted: Gurashi tilts his head, continuing to watch the vixen, fascinated. "...oh... uh..." He looks down at himself, significantly less shiny than the month before, offering an open armed 'ta-da' gesture. "Is me."

Mahin runs her tongue along her lips slowy. "Also spiders are a bit crunchy. You really should work on the taste in your forest." She grins in earnest now, glinting teeth gleaming in the soft moonlight.

You blink.

Suddenly, you say to Mahin, "Would like a cookie instead? Have many options."

You tilt your head curiously at Mahin.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Mahin, "Also, promise that if cooked right spiders are -very- tasty, yes Miss Mahin they are."

Mahin laughs again, shaking herself, her luxurious tails swaying back and forth as she walks in a slow circle. "I eat meat, mostly." She flicks her ears. "Goat is very good when I can get it."

You ponder the situation.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Ahh, am sorry - the only meat that have is not kind you would like... but will keep in mind for next time."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "...if is next time."

Suddenly concerned, you ask Mahin, "Did do something bad? Am about to die?"

You tilt your head curiously at Mahin.

Suddenly, Mahin is on your shoulder. You're not sure how she got there, but her tails now bat against your face, your antennae, and her glinting mouth is unnervingly close to your eye.

You have emoted: Gurashi leans his head reflexively at the presence on his shoulder, shutting the eye nearest to all the fluttering movement. "Oh, wow. Hi." He says uncomfortably, trying to see what is going on with limited sight.

Laughing again, Mahin says to you, "You have many FEELINGS, kephera-kin."

You blink.

Turning a light shade of red, you say to Mahin, "...er - yes - think everybody does, Miss Mahin."

Kneading her paws on your shoulder now, Mahin says to you, "Yes, and you wrote of them to the Mistress, hmm?"

You blink.

You stare blankly into space.

You think to yourself: ...the LETTER.

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly covers his face.

Faintly buzzing, you whisper, "Oh my gosh."

You have emoted: Gurashi drops his hand, looking to Mahin apologetically, suddenly drained and horrified. "Am -so- sorry do not know what came over was just very full of frustration and all came spilling out it was -so rude-."

Mahin climbs to the top of your head, looking down into your face upside down. "I'm very nosy. I read all Her mail." She winks. "She doesn't know." Another cascade of little yips.

You give a horrified gasp.

Faintly buzzing, you ask Mahin, "Isn't ... isn't that rude?"

You narrow your eyes at Mahin, canting your head and peering at her suspiciously.

You have emoted: Gurashi taps his fingers together nervously, staring at the vixen intently.

With another cascade of laughter, Mahin exclaims to you, "She made me Her scribe! I call that permission!"

Faintly buzzing, you say to Mahin, "...mmm, O-K."

Mahin launches off your head to land daintily in front of you, turning with a mischievous grin.

You have emoted: Gurashi's antennae bob thoughtfully before he shakes his head. "So then... wh... why are you here??"

Mahin sniffs you, trying to decipher just what that smell emanating from you is.

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

You think to yourself: Gosh.

You think to yourself: Shouldn't have sent the letter.

You think to yourself: Shouldn't have said anything.

Mahin says, "I smell Him on you."

You blink.

Faintly buzzing, you ask, "...Him... ?"

You have emoted: Gurashi stops, then suddenly looks very worried, his antennae flattening. "Oh."

Faintly buzzing, you say to Mahin, "Well, yes - He is of Glomdoring, and, am also, of Glomdoring..."

Baring her teeth, Mahin says, "The One that hurt my Mistress, yes."

You have emoted: Gurashi hesitates ... then nods once.

You think to yourself: ... and He is always...

Mahin slinks about underfoot once more, her rosy tail tips trailing along your leg. Her voice very quiet, Mahin says, "I am sorry."

You think to yourself: Ah - He will see.

You have emoted: Gurashi tilts his head, looking down at the vixen again in confusion. "...why are apologizing to -me-?"

Softly, surprised, you say to Mahin, "If anything should be apologizing to, probably, for things and reasons."

You think to yourself: Am going to probably do bad things.

You think to yourself: And cannot stop it.

You have emoted: Gurashi stares at the vixen apologetically, clenching and relaxing his fists.

Mahin turns her blue and brown eyes to you. "You have many feelings for the elfen-kin you wrote about." She curls a tail before her face, leaving only her gaze. "That is sad, and sad things always make me hungry. So I can imagine how that feels. I am sorry."

You have emoted: Gurashi blinks once, his hands clenched together at his abdomen. All at once the mention of the elfen makes him crestfallen, and he nods once, clearing his throat.

Quietly, you say, "Is O-K."

Quieter still, you say to Mahin, "Is what it is, so, is, yes?"

Mahin slinks up to you and licks and nips your shin. "Stop that," she growls, "Stop feeling sorry for yourself. Or I'll get more hungry. Or forget to forgive you for Shashi." She turns around, eyes flashing.

You have emoted: Gurashi lifts his leg as it is nipped at, surprised again. He sets down his foot and frowns at the mention of the peacock. "Oh, er," He raises a hand apologetically, "Am sorry - or, not sorry??"

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly produces an iridescent peacock-shaped cookie, offering it to the vixen with a dazed expression.

Tilting her head to one side, Mahin demands, "Are you sorry, or are you not, kephera-kin?"

Without hesitation, you say to Mahin, "Am."

Faintly buzzing, you say to Mahin, "For many things that do and do not know about, think."

Mahin lifts her head and delicately takes the cookie between her gleaming teeth, gripping with just enough force to hold it.

You sniff softly.

Mahin turns in a circle, and the cookie is gone. You're not certain what she's done with it.

You have emoted: Gurashi watches Mahin closely, movements slow, dazed.

You think to yourself: ...did like it?

You sweat profusely as you wring your hands nervously.

Sniffing the air appraisingly, Mahin says to you, "Here's my advice, kephera-kin: If you want to talk to her, talk to her," she slinks underfoot, then over to Bizirik, sniffing some more, "You like her well enough. I can smell it all over you, and... this one." She eyes Bizirik before turning back to you, snout curling, "Just don't bring the stink of Night or the rot of the Shadowed One into it."

Bizirik, the leothin offers a low rumble, then a curious little trill.

You blink.

Suddenly turning bright pink from his head to his shoulders, you ask, "....w-what. L-like, right now?"

You stare at Mahin, eyes wide.

Mahin laughs in a cascade of little yips. She shakes herself, fluffling all nine of her tails. "If you want to. If you're bold." She winks her brown eye, leaving only the bright blue one to glitter. "But whenever, cookie-kin."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "But..."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "But am enemied to the forest...!"
With a curl of her snout, Mahin says to you, "And you think I am welcome in yours?"

You stare at Mahin, eyes wide.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks down, covering his mouth, then back up at Mahin, eyes wide, expression changing from confused, to concerned... to determined.

With a swirl of her nine tails, Mahin disappears, leaving small strands of white fur upon the road, her yipping laughter still echoing in the air.

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon, "Miss Lief Miss Lief Miss Lief."

You have emoted: Gurashi covers his face with his hands, turning red again.

Lief tells you, "Gurashi, Gurashi, Gurashi!"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon, "Miss Lief, I need a very big favor please."

Lief tells you, "What can I do for you?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon, "Please - go to Miss Duethielle."

Lief tells you, "Oh! You would like to invite her to the concert?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon, "...s-sure."

Lief tells you, "Come along!"

Reaching out with your mind, you grasp the harmonic song of the domothean energies as you seek Lief.

The lingering notes of harmonic purity swell to impossible heights as you step confidently through the song of reality itself.
Hidden glade market.
There is but a light breeze blowing. A number of briar rose bushes grow at the edges of the glade, enclosing it in a thick, thorny ring that is difficult to traverse without injury. Rising from the leaves is a subtle fragrance, sweet as apples, which permeates the meadow with its rustic stalls and shelves that house various items for sale. Tall birch trees rise from among the briars, their whorled eyes overlooking the area like silent guardians. Hackles risen, a fierce timberwolf prowls about here. Binky Tailsnap stands here, his soft nose and whiskers lifted thoughtfully. Wings humming, Miaei Wildbriar hovers in midair. Her olive skin glowing with beauty, Duethielle Landrennbenn sings to herself. A mature birch tree stands proudly here. Reaching up as high as the eye can see looms the awesome presence of a living totem. A genteel peacock of blood red hue stands poised, possessing a branched tail spreading open like a prismatic fractal. Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon stands here in a faint breeze of rustling leaves and birdsong.
You see a single exit leading west.

Bowing low, whiskers twitching, Binky Tailsnap exclaims, "Oh hi! Welcome to our Glade!"

Lief wings happily about you, her gray eyes bright. "It's very good to see you again," she beams at you, then turns to Binky Tailsnap. "Hello, Binky!"

You have emoted: Gurashi arrives in a flash of color and song, taking a few dazed steps forward. He looks about the clearing, blinking twice before becoming drawn to Binky Tailsnap's voice. He chitters, bowing to the mousekin. "Hello, Mister Binky!"

You have emoted: Gurashi rises, looking to Lief, a hand over his heart. He seems beside himself, mandibles clicking anxiously. "Am sorry for such last second... request..."

Lief cants her antlered head, her dragonfly wings carrying her lazily through the air.

Binky Tailsnap looks at you with wide, hopeful eyes. "Are you here to visit with the Liar?" He gazes behind you.

You blink.

Hidden glade market.
There is but a light breeze blowing. A number of briar rose bushes grow at the edges of the glade, enclosing it in a thick, thorny ring that is difficult to traverse without injury. Rising from the leaves is a subtle fragrance, sweet as apples, which permeates the meadow with its rustic stalls and shelves that house various items for sale. Tall birch trees rise from among the briars, their whorled eyes overlooking the area like silent guardians. Hackles risen, a fierce timberwolf prowls about here. Binky Tailsnap stands here, his soft nose and whiskers lifted thoughtfully. Wings humming, Miaei Wildbriar hovers in midair. Her olive skin glowing with beauty, Duethielle Landrennbenn sings to herself. A mature birch tree stands proudly here. Reaching up as high as the eye can see looms the awesome presence of a living totem. A genteel peacock of blood red hue stands poised, possessing a branched tail spreading open like a prismatic fractal. Completely motionless, a slender leothin intently surveys its surroundings. Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon stands here in a faint breeze of rustling leaves and birdsong.
You see a single exit leading west.

You have emoted: Gurashi keeps his hand clasped over his heart, shaking his head. "Friend Liar has been very very VERY busy with construction in Gaudiguch, Mister Binky! But we already have plans to cook together when wakes up, and as soon as can will invite you too, O-K?"

You beam broadly at Binky Tailsnap.
Binky Tailsnap clasps his tiny hands together.

look binky
A mouse-kin of average height and gentle spirit, Binky Tailsnap looks about himself with bright and curious eyes. His fur is soft and well brushed, with whiskers extending like a fan from his small, pink nose. He wears a supple leather jerkin, its colour slightly darker brown, and matching breeches ending in tiny feet enclosed in a pair of well-worked moccasins. His hands bear remarkably agile and slender fingers, which are often clasped together or twirling his whiskers in thought. Draping behind him, a flexible, ropy tail curls from side to side to accentuate Binky's movements.
Binky Tailsnap looks to be crushingly strong.

look duethielle
Duethielle Ladrennbenn is an elfen of radiant olive skin and snow white hair, which is kept out of the way in a long, drooping braid that reaches down to the back of her legs. She wears a light, airy tunic of pale rose and loose, billowing pants of midnight blue limned in silver. Her bare skin has been inscribed with emerald tattoos in spiralling shapes of plants, vines, birds and forest creatures, which run across her cheeks and down her neck, over the collarbone and onto her chest, her back, her lithe limbs, even to the very tips of her fingers and toes. She hums softly off and on, her clear blue eyes glittering with flashes of joy. A musical bracelet of blue and white violets hangs from one of her wrists.
Duethielle Ladrennbenn looks to be crushingly strong.

Lief rubs the back of her neck as she looks behind you, then at you again.

You give a leopard-shaped chocolate chunk cookie to Binky Tailsnap.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Binky Tailsnap, "But do not worry, did not come empty handed."

Binky Tailsnap's mouth drops open and takes the cookie into both his hands.

In a swirl of blue fire, a gentle spirit stag leaps out of the Flame of dae'Seren upon Lief and prances in a slow circle before fading.

You wink conspiratorially at Binky Tailsnap.
Binky Tailsnap blinks at you with a thoughtful air.

Binky Tailsnap says to you, "Thank you, Mister Gurashi! I guess..." He turns his head, "You're here to see Duet then?"

You have emoted: Gurashi smiles, then slowly turns his head to look for the elfen. "...if it's O-K," He asks nervously.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Uhm... was advised to, think."

Lief clasps her hands together, a grin pressing into her freckled cheeks.

You have emoted: Gurashi flashes Lief a confused look.

You think to yourself: Miss Duet...

Binky Tailsnap walks over to Duethielle, tugging on her sleeve. "Duet!" He tugs again, "Duet, we have a visitor. Your favourite!" He smiles, his whiskers twitching.

You blink.

Her hands still clasped, Lief motions you forward with a waggle of her wrists.

You carapace turns a bright shade of red as you blush.

You have emoted: Gurashi stays where he stands, wringing his smaller hands together nervously still. He flashes a nervous smile, watching Binky Tailsnap approach the elfen woman, resting his main hands gently over his lute.

You think to yourself: ...she's wearing the bracelet... ah...

Duethielle Ladrennbenn turns at Binky's urging, her soft blue eyes clearing as her gaze falls upon you in the light of dusk.

You have emoted: For a moment, Gurashi looks remarkably happy, bringing a hand up to his mouth and covering the end of his beak. He clears his throat, dropping the arm soon after.

You have emoted: Gurashi offers a weak smile, and a tiny wave at Duethielle Ladrennbenn. "Hello, Miss Duethielle."

Lief drifts lazily about, a hum quietly in her throat as she politely allows her gaze to wander.

As the sun passes below the horizon's edge, Mother Night unveils her terrible, shadowy beauty, spreading darkness across the land.

"Hello," Duethielle Ladrennbenn smiles vaguely, lifting her hand to wiggle her fingers in greeting, a soft tinkling ringing in the air with the motion.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks at the bracelet again, smiling a little brighter as he drops his hand. "How are doing to-day?"

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly glances about, apparently seeking Miaei Wildbriar, prepared to offer a cookie in the faeling's direction.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn walks forward without answering and gently places a kiss on your cheek. Then she smiles. "Mother Moon is in her crescent today," she says airily.

You have emoted: Gurashi smiles weakly.

Shadows swirl around your arm as the Fingerblade of dha'Wyrden-cree digs itself more painfully into your finger.

You have emoted: Gurashi accepts the kiss with a gentle blink, staring down at the elfen for a tongue-tied moment. Finally, he looks up, tilting his head as he studies the sky. "Oh, She is."

Miaei Wildbriar's head pops out from amongst the leaves above. She grins cheekily, and then she disappears again.

You have emoted: Gurashi's gaze eventually drops from the sky back to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, mandibles clicking.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn looks up at the sky, humming softly to herself. She appears to have forgotten your existence again for a moment, swaying back and forth.

Lief tells you, "You had a question for her."

You have emoted: Gurashi casts a glance in Lief's direction suddenly, blinking. He looks up, as if looking for something - courage? Conviction? He finally looks back down at Duethielle Ladrennbenn again, shoulders heaving as he sighs.

Gently, you say to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "Miss Duet, am having a question for you... and, am hoping is not too personal of question..."

Lief continues to hum, her voice quiet as she admires the rose bushes coaxed about the glade by Miaei Wildbriar.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn's eyes turn to you, working to focus. "I like questions." She smiles vaguely, tattoos shifting, "Do you have a good one?" Her hand plays upon the bracelet on her other wrist, causing another round of musical chiming.

You have emoted: Gurashi watches Duethielle Ladrennbenn's every movement closely, eyes wide, trained. "Hope so." He glances momentarily at her wrist, then smiles again, sadly. "Would you tell me about your wife?"

You have emoted: Gurashi swallows hard the moment the question has left his mouth, suddenly looking nervous. He tightens his grip on his lute, antennae drooping.

You think to yourself: Please.

You think to yourself: Please do not hurt her by asking.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn hums softly and turns away, smiling dreamily, "Oh, she is around." Her long braid sways, "She likes the snow." Her eyes flash as they look at you for a moment, "But it's spring now...?" Lacing her fingers together, Duethielle walks back and forth.

Today is the 22nd of Kiani, 552 years after the Coming of Estarra. The phase of the moon is the Waxing Crescent.
There are 25 days until the New Moon

You have emoted: Gurashi looks up thoughtfully, considering the night sky. He falls in careful line with the elfen, making sure to not overtake her in her meandering. "Does she like the spring...?" He asks, leaning forward to see Duethielle Ladrennbenn's face as he asks.

Binky Tailsnap's whiskers quiver, his eyes widening. He looks at Duethielle for a moment, and then you. He seems to be mouthing something, but nothing is coming out of his lips.

Lief cants her antlered head, a twitch of her ear betraying how she listens despite her attention being elsewhere.

"Hmmmm?" Duethielle Ladrennbenn blinks, turning to you. She answers vaguely, "She's sometimes around in Spring. Not always though." She reaches out and takes your hand, squeezing.

Binky Tailsnap walks over to Lief and tugs on her arm.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks down, accepting the hand gladly and rejoining her side. "Oh. She travels?" He asks, lifting Duethielle Ladrennbenn's hand in his own and resting his smaller, second hand atop of it.

Lief's ear twitches again, and she startles, letting her feet touch the earth as she turns toward Binky Tailsnap. "Do you know who she's talking about?" she whispers to him.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn lifts her blue eyes to you, their gaze glittering. "She travels? Oh, no, she's always... here..." She waves her other hand, "Somewhere, you know?" Her smile betrays the slightest hint of sadness.

[[LIEF POV:
Binky Tailsnap murmurs in a low whisper, "I don't know if that was the best question..." His voice is soft and sibilant.

You have emoted: Lief cants her antlered head, her gaze turning from Binky Tailsnap to Gurashi and then back to the furrikin again. She hesitates, thoughtful.

You tell Binky Tailsnap, "Why does she never visit that I've seen? Is...that insensitive?"

Binky Tailsnap's whiskers quiver as he looks at you. He blinks.

Binky Tailsnap tells you, "One of these days, maybe not today, ask Teharo."]]

The melodious voice of Tridemon resonates in your mind, "Well, that timequake is interesting. You're still in there, you know."

You have emoted: Gurashi blinks, then pauses. He looks down, studying the ground, then back up to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, offering a little smile. "I know." He offers, giving her hand a small squeeze.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "**A distracted, melancholic silence greets you**."

Binky Tailsnap's whiskers quiver as he looks at Lief. He blinks.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks down at his lute, still clenched tightly with one primary arm.

The melodious voice of Tridemon resonates in your mind, "Hmm. Well, if you're busy, I'll leave you to whatever it is."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "**Quiet, so much so you almost miss it** Am sorry, Tridemon - will talk to later, O-K."

Lief's natural smile falls somewhat, and, after a moment, she nods quietly toward Binky Tailsnap before looking over to you. The smile returns, encouraging.

Lief tells you, "Do you want to show her the song you wrote her?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon, "**Silence**."

You think to yourself: Miss Duet...

You think to yourself: Am sorry.

You see a deer wander through a clearing in the distance.

You think to yourself: ... does mean she is ... no longer -.

Suddenly, without preamble, Duethielle Ladrennbenn says to you, "Would you like me to sing?"

You blink.

Lief brightens, and, quietly, she claps her hands together.

You have emoted: Gurashi's shoulders slouch slightly, and he takes his lute in hand as if by instinct. "Would love nothing more in the Basin, Miss Duet."

You gaze softens as you smile at Duethielle Ladrennbenn.
Duethielle Ladrennbenn flashes her clear blue eyes upon you.

Binky Tailsnap suddenly perks up and claps his hands, as if relieved.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn bows with her arms spread before you, as if in invitation to a dance, or a duel. Her blue eyes remain fixed upon you, her braid drooping until it almost touches the ground.

You have emoted: Gurashi remains utterly captivated by every movement Duethielle Ladrennbenn makes, his fingers finding the lute's strings. From nowhere he begins to play, a song soft and sweet and light. He cants his head, studying the elfen's face for approval.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn rises from her bow, both hands going to her braid, smoothing them over. She lifts her voice, and its echoes are like a silver chime, drifting over the canopy of the forest. Though it is morning, the soft hush of night seems to come over the glade, and with it, dancing moonlight. The melody is sad, wordless. Above her, the leaves rustle, and Miaei's face appears, contemplative for once. Beside her, Binky sways, whiskers trembling, eyes bright with admiration. And still, the elfen sings, eyes lifted into some place that is not here.

A silvery, chime-like voice drifts over the Serenwilde forest, causing all to hush for a moment.

Lief's breath catches in her throat, her eyes wide as her hands cover her mouth. Through her fingers, she mouths, breathlessly, "Beautiful..."

You have emoted: Gurashi continues playing his instrument, uncertain whether his melody leads Duethielle Ladrennbenn's or her's to his. And then her voice floods the clearing, and his already wide eyes widen more. His mandibles and antennae remain still, expression filled with longing at the sound of the achingly beautiful notes.

You think to yourself: Miss Duet ...

You think to yourself: Ah... is so beautiful ...

You think to yourself: Almost as beautiful as Shadowbeat ... no... n-no it's...

You have emoted: Gurashi's hand falters, the note he plays breaking for a split second before he resumes.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn hears your faltering, and her voice drops, though its melodies still echo within the branches for a moment more. She breaks into a smile. Sunlight floods into the clearing once more. "We are stopping now?" She stares at your lute, and the hands upon the strings, instead of you.

The voice stops abruptly, and the noises of the forest gradually come to life once more.

You have emoted: Gurashi continues playing, shaking his head. "Not if you do not want to be, no," He offers softly. "Have a song for you too, know." He looks down at his own hands as well. "If would like it."

Lief's hands slowly lower from her mouth to clutch one another over her chest. Her dragonfly wings flex behind her, then fold again, her wide-eyed gaze softening.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn claps her hands together, the chimes clinking upon her wrist. "I love your music, Mister Gurashi." Her voice is vague, dreamy, "Please, play your song."

You gaze softens as you smile at Duethielle Ladrennbenn.
Duethielle Ladrennbenn flashes her clear blue eyes upon you.

You have emoted: Gurashi exhales softly, looking again to his hands, still playing. The melody shifts, soft, dreamlike, bringing forth a wistful sleepy tune as he plays. He maintains his gaze on Duethielle Ladrennbenn, lost in her stare as he sings - "In quiet of the evening, when birds stop their singing, and peoples slow down from their rush." He sighs, tilting his head. "Listen - can feel the hush."

Binky Tailsnap tilts his head and listens.

Softly still, the notes lulling up and down sweetly, you sing, "When all is blue is where wait for you, and your starry sky eyes."

Duethielle Ladrennbenn's eyes fall upon you, their blue glittering in the falling of the light. And she clasps her hands together, humming to the tune.

Argent moonlight pierces the blue glow of the Flame of dae'Seren upon Lief, enshrouding her momentarily in a silver mantle.

Lief sways gently as she listens to you, her ears twitching. Her quiet gray eyes fix themselves upon you, listening intently to your song.

You have emoted: Gurashi finally drops his gaze, his carapace turning a faint shade of red from head to shoulders as he plays, the melody as dreamy as before. "So am glad that could stop by. Made up many reasons why - but is just so good to see you, because always make me smile," His voice strains a bit, nervous as he looks back up to Duethielle Ladrennbenn. "And always make me sigh."

Laughingly, you sing, "This feeling is confusing," He glances aside, "Makes hard to say goodbye."

Miaei Wildbriar giggles from her hiding place above. The leaves rustle, and a few more briar roses bloom.

His light expression slowly dropping, nearly melancholic, you sing, "Think love is like a storm - Will turn your heart around."

Lief's gray eyes skip about her immediate surrounds surreptitiously, scanning, before they settle upon you and your song again.

Looking to Duethielle, you sing, "Will make dizzy with a smile, dizzy with a laugh."

Duethielle Ladrennbenn smiles at you, humming still, her eyes with a faraway look in their soft blue. She starts to unwind her braid from the bottom, reaching halfway, with her white tresses in waves. Then, she begins to braid them again, pulling each strand tight in rhythm to the song.

Lief's gray eyes quietly close as she listens to your words, her hands lingering clasped over her heart.

You have emoted: Gurashi pauses, playing an extra verse as he finds his words. "Your love is like a storm, and will be swept away. Don't know what to do."

You have emoted: Gurashi watches Duethielle Ladrennbenn as she unbraids and braids her hair, continuing to play his dreamy tune, albeit softer. "Am so jealous of Miss Moon. Because is one to walk you home, just you and Her alone."

You think to yourself: Why do feel like want to cry.

You have emoted: Gurashi shut his eyes, head lolling to the side as he sings. "The tree silhouettes start to sway as Night bids farewell to the day."

Softly, trailing off, you sing, "This song is true - still wait for you, and your lovely blue eyes."

Duethielle Ladrennbenn breaks into wide smile at you, and her olive face lights up at the mention of Mother Moon. Then a cloud passes, casting her expression into shadow, though her blue eyes still gleam upon you.

You have emoted: Gurashi lets his voice fall silent, though his lute continues to play.

The wind whistles eerily through the trees.

When the sung music trails off, Lief is quiet for several long moments. She stills, listening to the lute, her eyes fluttering open again to settle upon you and Duethielle Ladrennbenn.

You have emoted: Gurashi clicks his beak shut, sighing quietly.

You think to yourself: Have such big feelings for.

Midnight shadows coalesce around a new day, and Mother Night embraces the land in utter darkness.
It is now the 23rd of Kiani, 552 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 24 days until the New Moon

You think to yourself: What am supposed to do.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn reaches out with both hands, placing one on each side of your face. "See?" she says, "You can sing." A frown then crosses her face, "But why do you say goodbye...?"

You have emoted: Gurashi bends a bit at the knees, unconsciously making himself easier to reach. "Mm," He smiles, reaching up and placing a hand over hers. "Think it would be unkind to pursue a married persons," He says, grinning, forced, happy. "Especially when already has all of. Yes?"

You think to yourself: I like you a lot.

You think to yourself: Like more than a lot.

You have emoted: Gurashi smiles weakly.

Binky Tailsnap lifts his head, making a noise that sounds very much like a squeak.

Lief lowers her hands, once clasped over her heart, now held neatly over her lap. A faeling ear of hers twitches to Binky Tailsnap's vocalization, but she watches you and Duethielle Ladrennbenn.

You think to yourself: Like you so ...

Duethielle Ladrennbenn removes her free hand to place it on top of your hand. She continues to smile vaguely at you. But she doesn't say a single thing. Her eyes appear lost as they gaze upon you.

Binky Tailsnap says, "Umm... maybe... um..."

Duethielle Ladrennbenn says, "Don't say goodbye."

You have emoted: Gurashi watches Duethielle Ladrennbenn closely, his other hands dropping. His lute playing finally stops, and he stares up at the elfen, quiet enough to whisper. "Unless you want me to pursue." He adds.

(REDACTED): You say, "Whoa."
(REDACTED): You say, "Whait."
(REDACTED): Lief says, "G U RA SH I."
(REDACTED): You say, "*coverse mouth*."

You blink.

When the music fully stops, Lief blinks slowly as she looks between you and Duethielle Ladrennbenn. Her freckled cheeks slowly begin to flush, and quickly, she lifts her hands to them, hiding them and her eyes both behind her nimble fingers and calloused fingertips.

Binky Tailsnap looks extremely uncomfortable. He resigns himself to wringing his hands.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn continues to stare at you for a long time, though she appears to have no discomfort, a vague smile upon her lips.

Birds fill your ears with serenades of happiness and love.

You have emoted: Gurashi's hopeful expression remains, antennae twitching as he tilts his head the other way.

Quiet, you say to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "...will if want."

You twiddle your thumbs.

You think to yourself: Want to see you again...

You think to yourself: Even if is super.... super duper selfish.

Through her hands still covering her face, Lief whispers, "Say yes. If it's okay to say yes and you want to say yes."

Binky Tailsnap covers his face with his little hands, muttering to himself, though it's unclear what he is saying.

(REDACTED): Lief says, "The mental image of this is hilarious in my head. Gurashi and Duethielle intensely staring into each other's eyes. Binky and Lief side by side hiding their eyes. Miaei's probably creeping through the branches herself."

Duethielle Ladrennbenn withdraws both of her hands and plants a kiss on your cheek. "Just don't say goodbye, okay, Mister Gurashi? Please come back..." She smiles faintly, "My wife would be very sad if you did."

Binky Tailsnap looks up and squeaks again. Overhead, the voice of Miaei Wildbriar laughs through the leaves.

You have emoted: Gurashi's eyes glaze over, and he nods, once. "...O-K." He swallows, expression twisting to something near confusion, but never quite so lost. "I will come back."

You think to yourself: Her name...

You think to yourself: Ask her name, ask her name...

You have emoted: Gurashi opens his mouth as if to ask something else, but closes it instead, smiling softly at Duethielle Ladrennbenn. "Many ...thank yous for seeing me this month..."

With more talking, Lief parts her fingers, peeking through the gaps in them.

Birds fill your ears with serenades of happiness and love.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn gives you another smile, and in it, there is something sweet, and yet, something sad. She turns away, humming.

You think to yourself: Miss Duet...

You think to yourself: Don't be sad...

Binky Tailsnap takes his tail in his  hands and ties a knot with it, looking mildly anxious. He then picks the knot free. And then he ties a knot again.

You have emoted: Gurashi lets himself stand up to full height as the elfen turns away, seeming unsure of his footing. He glances towards Lief, then Binky Tailsnap, mandibles clicking, unsure.

Softly, you say to Binky Tailsnap, "... Mister Binky - thank you for having me."

You tilt your head curiously at Miaei Wildbriar.
Perching briefly before you, Miaei Wildbriar takes off again, wings humming.

Surprised, you say to Miaei Wildbriar, "Hello, Miss Miaei."

With laughter in her voice, Miaei Wildbriar says to you, "I liked it. Thanks for-."

It's another moment before Lief lowers her hands from her face, her cheeks still a little bit red with warmth. She glances sidelong at Binky Tailsnap, and then back to you, pushing a bright smile onto her lips.

Binky Tailsnap exclaims, "No, stop it!"

You look about in confusion.

The smell of wildflowers wafts past your nose.

Binky Tailsnap waves his little hands at Miaei. "Don't say anything, not right now!"

You have emoted: Gurashi looks between Miaei Wildbriar and Binky Tailsnap, frowning.

Miaei Wildbriar smirks.

Miaei Wildbriar takes off and flies off into the trees again.

With increasing concern, you ask Binky Tailsnap, "...Mister Binky... is, something going on?"

Lief's own wings lift her from the earth and bring her closer to you again, their spans humming as they keep her aloft and roughly eye level with the kephera. She cants her antlered head, watching Miaei flit away, a curious expression upon her face.

You think to yourself: That was...

Binky Tailsnap shakes his head and unknots his tail. "Duet loves your visits. She really does." His whiskers quiver, "Just come back more, okay? She'll love it."

You blink.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Binky Tailsnap, "M-more?"

Faintly buzzing, you say to Binky Tailsnap, "Ah, it is not always easy to come into Serenwilde - am not... liked... around here."

You have emoted: Gurashi pauses as he says this. "On paper, at least."

You stare at Lief, eyes wide.

Lief glances sidelong at you. "Speak with Pysynne," she suggests quietly.

Binky Tailsnap says to you, "Or take her skating, or..."

You have emoted: Gurashi drags his hands across his head. "The skating place is gone for now."

You carapace turns a bright shade of red as you blush.

Binky Tailsnap covers his face with his little hands. "She's good with you." He shakes his head, "She's here."

Softly, you say to Binky Tailsnap, "Here..."

Faintly buzzing, you say to Binky Tailsnap, "Mean..."

You have emoted: Gurashi gestures with his hands about his face, then about the clearing.

A little concerned, you ask Binky Tailsnap, "Is she ... not here often...?"

In a tiny voice, Binky Tailsnap says, "With me, she is, sometimes. But not always."

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks back over towards Duethielle Ladrennbenn, then down to Binky Tailsnap again. "Should bring her to Miss Lief's concert later this month. It would be fun. There will be music and is in Serenwildes."

You have emoted: Gurashi offers Binky Tailsnap a weak smile.

Binky Tailsnap nods a few times. "I will try."

From the trees, Miaei Wildbriar exclaims, "I'll come too!"

Calling up, Binky Tailsnap says, "No, Miaei, you really shouldn't..."

Lief perks up, glancing around at everyone, and she claps her hands together merrily.

Lief perks up, glancing around at everyone, and she claps her hands together merrily.

Pysynne has assigned a fine of 50000gp to be unenemied to the Free Alliance of Serenwilde.  To pay this fine, go to the Hall of Records and type: DIPLOMACY SERENWILDE PAY FINE

You look about in confusion.

Faintly buzzing, you whisper, "Wh..."

You stare at Lief, eyes wide.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Lief, "Wait..."

Lief's expression is wholly innocent as she looks at you. "What you choose to do is entirely in your hands."

Nervous, you say to Lief, "Do not know where hall of records is."

Lief nods her head enthusiastically at you.

You have emoted: Gurashi casts another look in Duethielle Ladrennbenn's direction, shoulders sagging.

Lief nods her head enthusiastically at you.

You have emoted: Gurashi casts another look in Duethielle Ladrennbenn's direction, shoulders sagging.

You begin to follow Lief.

Lief wings a merry circle about the glade, waving to everybody present.

Binky Tailsnap waves goodbye.

You carapace turns a bright shade of red as you blush.

You wave goodbye.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Uhm - have... a good day!"

Binky Tailsnap exclaims, "Goodbye!"

Lief searches the air in front of her, then tugs upon an invisible strand of force.

You flail about helplessly.

You give a leopard-shaped chocolate chunk cookie to Binky Tailsnap. x3

You raise all four arms to offer an enthusiastic four thumbs-up.

***We went to HALL O' RECORDS***

Quietly, Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon says to you, "I want to let you know very quickly before we do this!"

You have emoted: Gurashi stops, looking at Lief with wide eyes.

Quietly, Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon says to you, "Because you are still of Glomdoring, you won't be allowed to wander freely. But maybe you'll feel a little bit less awkward about coming to the Forest in general for it."

Lief clasps her hands together before herself. "I just want you to know, before you spend the coin - that is what Pysynne and I discussed."

You have emoted: Gurashi covers either side of his face with his hands. "I do not think that Lord Silence is going to like it when He hears about it," He whispers to the faeling, his voice thin and tight. "Miss Lief I do not want to put Miss Duethielle in danger."

You sweat profusely as you wring your hands nervously.

You look at Lief, expression filled with concern as you frown.

Lief's voice is scarcely a whisper itself as she says to you, "Did you *hear* her sing? I've never seen another person sing like that, except, maybe, Trialante Herself."

Her hands upon her cheeks, Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon whispers, "Goodness."

His shoulders sagging, you say to Lief, "Ah, yes..."

You have emoted: Gurashi stares off into space, lost in some daydream.

Hovering close, Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon whispers to you, "I think everything will be well."

Weakly, you say, "Where do pay the thing."

You follow Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon in to the Hall of Records.

DIPLOMACY SERENWILDE PAY FINE
You pay a fine of 50000gp and are no longer an enemy of the Free Alliance of Serenwilde.

You blink.

Lief smiles softly at you.

As he signs his name and passes off his coin, you ask, "...that is ... it?"

Lief clasps her hands together before her kimono robed lap, and she nods her antlered head. "That is it," she says quietly, smiling.

Lief tilts her antlered head to one side, appraising you with thoughtful gray eyes.

You have emoted: Gurashi's mandibles click against his face, and he looks about the hall with wide eyes. "...so, I can... go see her, and it won't be so..." He shrugs, "bad?"

Lief's thoughtful gaze turns into smiles as she bobs in the air before you. "You will still want to be escorted about," she repeats, and then smile deeper. "But yes. It won't be so bad."

You have emoted: Gurashi covers his beak with his hands, looking like he might cry, if he could. "Think she wants me to come back?" He asks weakly, voice wavering.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Lief, "I could not ask her for a name - she looked so sad."

In awe, you say to Lief, "Thought heart would shatter when saw look so sad."

Lief drifts lazily about you, the hum of her wings causing some papers to flutter whenever she sways too close. She is quiet for a moment, and then she reaches out to touch your shoulder. "Do not worry about it too much," she says reassuringly. "I mean - you can still talk about it with her if you like, but...I will ask around as well."

With a little nod, you say to Lief, "O-K..."

You have emoted: Gurashi gazes off, lost in thought again, lightly touching the pendant below his scarf.

Lief squints outside the doors to the Hall of Records, then hums. "Almost two more days until the concert," she says with a clap of her hands.

You have emoted: Gurashi perks up, then offers an encouraging smile. "Oh...right, yes - will be there," He says. "Hey - will be less awkward this time maybe."

You have emoted: Gurashi gestures about the hall and offers a sarcastic "eh?"

Quietly, you say to Lief, "Should go home and rest for a little bit. Has..."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "... been a long month."

Lief nods her antlered head in understanding. "I should practice, too," she says brightly. "I am looking forward to you attending!"

You nod your head sagely.

You have emoted: Gurashi pauses.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Lief, "Many thank yous."

Lief tells you, "You're welcome, Gurashi. It brings me so much joy to see you happy."