You think to yourself: But... I'm -leaving-. **a sudden uncertainty, should you...?**.

A long stretch of blue-violet sands.
Blue-violet sands continue to line this beach, running further to the east as well as back to the west. The way to the north, however, is blocked by a sharp rise in the terrain, with a twenty foot high bluff of blue-violet crystal mixed in with pockets of black crystal with starry lights at the center. Some bamboo, jade green but streaked with blue-violet crystal all along its height as well as rings where the segments meet, lines the bottom of the bluff, mostly concealing a small cave, just big enough for three or four people to sit or stand in comfortably, with a bit of the cave further back much smaller, and probably only able to fit one human-sized individual. Off to the west, the sound of a river can be heard, and a delta where the river meets the beach has hundreds of black crystals scattered about. Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters lingers nearby, the air about him singing with the rush of the ocean. He wields a dazzling white staff crowned by a platinum pearl in his left hand. Gurashi is here, leaning on Tridemon. They wield a vibrant mandolin of songbirds and stars in their left hand.
You see exits leading east and west.
Wait timer expired.
You blink.

Gurashi gives Tridemon a friendly cuddle.
Gurashi blinks.

You have emoted: Cheliyi squints.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Am I interrupting...."

Tridemon gives you a bland look.

You have emoted: Cheliyi slowly backs out of the room.

This room has not been mapped.
Sun of a Beach.
Stretching out in every direction is a somewhat oddly colored beach- rather than white or brown or red sand, the sand here is largely a bluish-violet. In the immediate area though is a wide, pristine beach blanket covering the warm sands, along with a wide, colorful umbrella that shades a portion of the blanket from the eternal noontime sun. Next to the blanket is a wooden sign which has been planted deep in the sand, with the words 'Out to Lunch' painted neatly across the weathered boards in black and gold. Off to the north, a forest of rising bamboo can be seen in the distance. The light of day shines brightly. Perpetually ticking away the hours, the Immortal Clock of Past's Restoration stands proudly nearby. Sparkling liquids bubble up from a fountain here.
You see exits leading north, east, and down.

Across the heavens, the stars and moon challenge night's dark reign, revealing familiar constellations that tell the tales of myth and legend.

Gurashi's melodic voice sings into your mind, "Come BACK."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Gurashi, The Heart's Friend, "**vague aetherstatic noises, -embarrassed-**."

---> zoom back in
A long stretch of blue-violet sands.

You have emoted: Cheliyi peeks her head back into view, squinting.

Flustered, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Sorry! You did not! Are fine!"

Tridemon reaches out and touches Gurashi.

Gurashi pats the ground aggressively, the sound echoing in the small cave. "Do not have to leave! Come sit with us!"

You blink.
You chuckle softly, your frilled tail flicking idly with amusement.

Gurashi blushes furiously.

You have emoted: Cheliyi shuffles over, taking a seat next to Gurashi.

Gurashi smiles sheepishly, still bright red, sticking out their tongue at Tridemon. "Your dad likes to tease, he does, he do-es."

Tridemon sniffs Gurashi, trying to decipher just what that smell emanating from them is.

Gurashi looks suddenly to you, face lighting up as they smile brightly.
Gurashi tilts their head curiously at Tridemon.

You have emoted: Cheliyi chuckles again, giving Tridemon a mischievous grin.

Gurashi looks back at you, head gently thunking against Tridemon's chest as they flash the mugwump a little smile. "How are you, mine-child? How are?"

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "One moment."

Tridemon begins to tumble towards the west.
Tridemon tumbles out to the west.
Tridemon tumbles in from the west.

Gurashi blinks.

Tridemon tumbles right back into the spot he had just vacated.

Gurashi's eyes light up as they smile.
Patiently, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks, "Fancy enterings?"

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "I wanted to see what the fountain had."

You have emoted: Cheliyi settles her legs into a criss-cross position, watching Tridemon tumble with a small smile. "Mm.... okay. Went to Serenwildes, actually, with Miss Nialla, and Miss... well, she told me to call her just Millie. Saw one of Miss Lief's plays."

Gurashi suddenly cants their head and narrows their eyes at Tridemon, peering at him suspiciously.
Curiously, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "I do not know... Millie. But have met Miss Nialla..." They settle back in to their spot, leaning against the lucidian. "Ah? Miss Lief's?? Which one?"
Gurashi looks on at you, listens curiously and patiently as the mugwump recants her tale.

Plucking at the edge of her blanket, you say, "Mm, it was called the Bridge Saint, I think. About some dracnaris... a lord and his protector, yes. It... it was really sad, actually. But beautiful."
Pausing, you say, "It did not feel fake at all."

Gurashi tilts their head curiously at you.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks, "Fake?"

You wave your hand dismissively.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "My siblings always used to call Serenwildes... like... fake? Not -fake- fake, but... stale. I do not know. Because they are 'stagnant'."

Gurashi blinks slowly. "In Glomdoring, yes - the First Forest was criticized oftens for being unchanging and stagnant, remember learning that, too..."

You have emoted: Cheliyi nods, pulling a stray feather from her hair to fidget with. "I... maybe they are. But it was... nice. Even if Mother Moohart was sort of yelling at me? Not really. Just... like, squinting, if she had eyes."

Gurashi blinks.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks, "Yelling with her eyes?"

You stare blankly into space.
You shudder violently as a chill ripples down your spine.

Vaguely disturbed, you say, "N-no. I meant she was just suspicious of me. How would someone yell with their eyes?"
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "Is w-why was asking...!"

Gurashi blushes furiously.
Gurashi glances askance at Tridemon.

You think to yourself: **a horrifying image of eyes and mouths- okay nope**.
You stare blankly into space.

Gurashi looks back at you, puffing their cheeks. "A-anyway, go on!"

A large tree appears, a face upon its trunk. The eyes and mouth open, and an eye emerges from the mouth, before all three eyes open into screaming, sharp-toothed mouths. Then the illusion vanishes into glitter.
Your eye immediately notices the flaws in what is obviously an illusion.

Tridemon shifts his eyes suspiciously from side to side.

Dazed, you say, "Um. Yes. So we watched the play, it was about a dracnari who scared the entire groups of h-."

Gurashi bops Tridemon on the head.

You stare blankly into space.
You think to yourself: **dial-up tones**.

Gently throttling Tridemon, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "That was -t e r r i b l e-."
Gurashi clears their throat.

Tridemon shifts his eyes suspiciously from side to side.

You have emoted: Cheliyi puts her face in her hands, shaking with nervous laughter.

Gurashi puffs their cheeks at Tridemon with some amount of mock intimidation before turning to listen to you again, eyes wide. "Please continue."

Faintly amused, you say, "That... is almost as bad is my dreams, yes, ha.... new nightmare to look forward to, yes."
You have emoted: Cheliyi grins, unsettled, but still clearly teasing.

A luxuriously-furred kephera runs along the beach, being chased by a horde of angry crabs.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "Oh no he is -back-."
Beads of sweat break out on Gurashi's face.

You stare blankly into space.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Remember how said your dad was teasers? A teasings."

Gurashi stares at Tridemon, eyes wide.

Flailing, you say, "W h y."

As if to placate his concerns, Gurashi leans in and kisses Tridemon on the nose, settling the matter.

You peer at Tridemon unscrupulously.
Firmly, you say, "Menace."

Conspiratorially, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Think is how he shares his Light - by making people laughs."
Gurashi winks knowingly.

Waving her hand, you say, "So, anyways. The dracnari scared an entire -army- of trills and lucidians into not crossing a bridge, to protect his friend and lord. Even when they fired arrows at him, he did not yield. He stayed there for a whole day, until someone sent out a scout to inspect him. When they finally got to him..."
You sigh quietly, frills drooping as your tail sags.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Well, he had died, yes. Was like a standing scarecrow, and had protected his lord to the end."

A light wind whips the cloying scent of roses and congealed blood into your senses, reminding you fondly of home.

Gurashi nods meekly at this, eyes squinting slightly as they attempt to recall the tale. "Mm..."
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "...was he O-K? The Lord was protected."
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks, "What happened in the end?"

You think to yourself: **a vague discomfort in your gut, dracnari bring pain, but that one was so good... you're not sure what to think. A special occurrence?**.

Staring down at her lap, you say, "His lord needed enough time to take his own life with dignity. The guard was able to grant it. They were both buried with honor, and the guard was sainted, I think."

Inhaling, you say, "Well, then the play ended, and we tried to get some peep chili, but no one was awake to make it."

Gurashi says nothing at the conclusion of the play, brow furrowed and eyes shiny as they listen to the story. At the mention of peep chili, they blink, lip quirking into a little smile. "Miss Coraline's chili?"

You nod your head emphatically.

Glancing askance at her catalogue, you say, "Could not find the recipe, no, and we were all sleepy, so then I went to sleep."

Eyes briefly losing focus, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Ah - yeah. Is rare recipe. Was privately made, think..."
Gurashi chuckles long and heartily.

Smiling, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Sounds like had fun."
Gurashi tilts their head and listens intently to you.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Did make any other friends? Besides...Millie and Miss Nialla."

The ever-present sense of your heartbeat thrums, beating to the rhythmic pulse of the Drums of the Dead.

Gurashi leans against Tridemon, eyes half-closing.

You hum softly, your frills vibrating with song.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Saw Miss Velcora too. She tried to convince me to come to Serenwildes, but... in a nice way? In a nice way. She's nicely to talk to."

Tridemon leans close to Gurashi and gently lays a kiss upon their forehead.

Gurashi's gaze softens as they smile at you.
Voice soft, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "She is nice. Likes desserts, think."
Gurashi ponders you thoughtfully, looking you up and down.

You have emoted: Cheliyi hums and nods, gently pulling the albino crow feather through pinched fingers over and over, as if it were a soothing motion.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Is nice to be invited to live somewheres, yes." A pause. "How ...do feel about? Feeling its not fakeness. Meeting peoples there."
Light spreads across Gurashi's back in numerous colours and hues, enfolding them like butterfly wings.

You glance askance.

Hurriedly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "S-sorry."
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Uh, mean."
Gurashi glances askance.
Gurashi frets over everything that might go wrong.

Eventually, you say, "It is nice. But I would not join a place that hurts my siblings, even if they... well. Even if I don't live there."

You give Gurashi a friendly squeeze.
Gurashi nods their head sagely.
Gurashi reaches out and touches you.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "That is fine too."

Softer, you say, "It would be nice, if Serenwilde and Glomdoring ever allied again. I remember hearing they did, once. But, it is unlikely."

Gurashi nods their head emphatically.
Gurashi nods their head emphatically.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "They did, once, yes."
Almost excitedly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Tree of Trees was involved, think..."

Tridemon reaches out and touches Gurashi.

Gurashi shifts in their spot, lolling their head back slightly to look up at Tridemon as the lucidian touches them.

Tridemon reaches out and touches you.
Tridemon nods his head sagely.

You peer at Tridemon unscrupulously.
You flop yourself into Tridemon's arms.

Gurashi's eyes light up as they smile.

Tridemon gives you a friendly cuddle.

Hesitating, you say, "I was thinking maybe I could... go to Celest, yes. Maybe."

Gurashi lets out a little noise as you suddenly joins in on the leaning, making a little room as they scoot back. "...ah - to the city?"

You have emoted: Cheliyi hums, and shrugs.

Gurashi's face lights up...then twists with concern. "Mm. Would be comfortable for you? Not that do not want you to, just - your eyes..." They trail off.

Counting off on her fingers, you say, "Hallifax is too weirdly. And Gaudiguch is full of fire, Magnagora... hmgh. Serenwildes is a very very slight maybe, but they want to hurt home, so..."

Faintly, you say, "Maybe I can get the... tinted spectacles?"

Gurashi ponders glittering spectacles with heart-shaped lenses thoughtfully, looking it up and down.
A look of understanding crossing their features, Gurashi nods their head slowly.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "That could help, yus..."

Gurashi stare at you for a time, silent, contemplating, still partially leaning against Tridemon, though they have scooted plenty to give you majority share of the cuddles.

The ever-present sense of your heartbeat thrums, beating to the rhythmic pulse of the Drums of the Dead.

You have emoted: Cheliyi leans against Tridemon, humming contently.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Well if you come to live in New Celest we are getting a -see saw- put in soon, Mister Alarin promised."
Gurashi nods their head sagely.

Aquamantic symbols suddenly project themselves upon the very air in dark blue light, fading after a brief moment.

Gurashi glances askance.
Softer, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "...and, our trees are ...newer and different-er but."

You smile softly at Gurashi.
You give Gurashi a friendly squeeze.

Gurashi smiles sheepishly at you, glancing up at Tridemon. "...how -are- the trees? Last month they were noisy to you..."

You have emoted: Cheliyi pauses, and glances away. "Well, they aren't -happy-."

Gurashi tilts their head and listens intently to you.

Wincing, but not from pain, you say, "They're... pretty upset, actually, yes. But now instead of silent treatment, they like to lecture me. As if it will bring me back to them."

Gurashi frowns somewhat, reaching out to touch your shoulder. "Are very noisy?"

The sounds of unseen animals stirring for the coming day are audible behind the gentle whistling of the wind elsewhere in the manse.

Aquamantic symbols suddenly project themselves upon the very air in dark blue light, fading after a brief moment.

You have emoted: Cheliyi shrugs, sticking the feather upright in some nearby sand. "Not exactly. Brother Rowan usually keeps them quietish. Distant? Should probably go bury something next to his sapling's roots in my manse. But sometimes they get extra grumbly."

Gurashi blinks.
Gurashi tilts their head and listens intently to you.
Gently, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Oh - that is ...kindly of him." They perk up a little. "...distracted, maybe."

You have emoted: Cheliyi nods absently, piling sand up around the feather to make a small mound. "He's the only one being reasonable, yes." She pauses, frills wilting as her hands begin to pat the sand in place. "I think... well, he was also hurt, when he thought I 'chose' you both, but he understands now. Weirdly that he is less stubborn. I would think since Sister Willow bends more, she would be more... bendy, but she is just as frustrated."

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "...the more loves that give..."
Gurashi watches you pile the sand up around the feather, nodding slightly.

Giving the feather on last pat, you say, "So... yes. My siblings are still loud. But Brother Rowan is helping, and he cares, so... it will be okay, I think." She suddenly smiles, the expression wry. "Family dinner will just be much less comfortable, yes.""

Blinking, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Dinner with us will not be, though."

You blink.
You give a trillingly melodic laugh, your frills resonating with joy.

Gurashi glances askance at Tridemon, clearly attempting to make some sort of joke as they drop their head, blinking sleepily. "...it WILL be O-K."

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Sorry, no, that did not make sense."
You give Gurashi a friendly squeeze.
You nod your head emphatically.

Gurashi shakes their head.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "You are fine!"
Gurashi chuckles long and heartily.

Sighing, you say, "I will wait till the end of the year to finally leave Glomdoring, yes. So that way we can submit another production and Miss Kreon has more time to find a replacement. Then..."

Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.

You have emoted: Cheliyi gesture vaguely, leaning against Tridemon once more with a distant gaze.

After a long pause, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks you, "Are ... definitely going to leave, then? Have decided?"

You glance askance.
You nod your head emphatically.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Decided last month."

Gurashi suddenly reaches out, wrapping you up in a hug.

You blink.
You hug Gurashi as best as you can, pulling them into a tight embrace.

You think to yourself: **a dull ache**.

Squeezing tight, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "Will be O-K."
Looking down, their grip no looser, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Love you so muchly. We will be here for you, yes."

Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters has left the realm of Lusternia.
Tridemon is enveloped in translucent fire for a moment and is gone, his soul safe until he returns to Lusternia.

(And Everything Nice): Gurashi says, "TIMING lol."

You have emoted: Cheliyi wordlessly tightens her grip, scrunching up the back of Gurashi's shirt.
You think to yourself: **the ache, sharper now**.

Gurashi hums softly to themself.
Gurashi gives you a friendly squeeze.

You let loose a long breath from your lungs, exhaling slowly.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "Am proud of you. Will be O-K."

You have emoted: Cheliyi loosens, instead leaning against their chest.

Gurashi continues to hum in the absence of their words, lightly petting the back of your head. "...will be O-K."

Faintly, you say, "Mm. Might be rogue for a while, first. Just to... maybe find myself? Sutekh was right a bit, I think. Don't have many personal ambitions, no."

Gurashi pets you ingratiatingly.

Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters has entered the realm of Lusternia.
The body of Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters appears in a flash and his soul descends to fill it, causing the previously expressionless face to fill with emotion.

You think to yourself: **you don't want to try to trust anything so new again, so soon. But... that's okay. You're allowed to heal, probably.**.

Shifting slightly as the lucidian returns, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks you, "...what do mean? Do not know what want from life? Just for yourselfs?"
Gurashi pets you ingratiatingly.
Gurashi looks at Tridemon, face lighting up as they smile brightly at him.
Gurashi leans against Tridemon, eyes half-closing.

Tridemon reaches over and ruffles your hair with a fond expression.

The ghost of a smile passes fleetingly across your lips.

Gurashi tilts their head and listens intently to you.
Quietly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Can be rogues if want. Can take time to think."

Softly, you say, "I... don't want to find a new cause so soon, no. Will probably still go to Celest. But... I need some time to sort out the inside of my chest."

Gurashi nods their head emphatically.

With a nod, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "That is fine."

You think to yourself: **the ache... it feels like this hurt isn't going to go away ever. But it has to at some point.**.

You have emoted: Cheliyi relaxes at this, and nods.

Perking up, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "Is goodly, even. To give yourselfs time."

You have emoted: Cheliyi blinks, glancing up at Gurashi curiously.

You think to yourself: ... not selfish?

Gurashi tilts their head, gaze softening as they frown.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Rushing is bad."
Gurashi glances askance.

You have emoted: Cheliyi hums, and tilts her head as if to acquiesce.

Gurashi gives you a friendly squeeze.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "...it will be quiet. But, you can still hear us, yus."
Finger extended, Gurashi pokes Tridemon.
Gurashi suddenly turns to you, and you watch as they reaches out and lightly boops you on the nose with a finger.

Inhaling sharply, you sneeze so hard that your frills puff out like balloons.
You stare blankly into space.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "That is just getting -unfair-."

Gurashi hums innocently.
You peer at Gurashi unscrupulously.

Not pouting, you say, "You know one of my weaknesses, but I know none of yours! How am I supposed to get revenge?"

Gurashi grins mischievously at you.
Gurashi hums softly to themself.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "Is super dad powers."
The Mantle of Starlight shimmers and twinkles as the starlit darkness that it is formed of continues its eternal motion.

You flail about helplessly.

Gurashi's shoulders bunch as they let out a short giggle.
Gurashi pets you ingratiatingly.
Gurashi's gaze softens as they smile at you.

You giggle happily.
You snuggle close to Gurashi and lean comfortably on them.

Gurashi blanches suddenly.

You blink.
You blink.
You have emoted: Cheliyi sits up, immediately defensive.
You brandish a putrid thornvine whip menacingly.

(And Everything Nice): You say, "Will fite."

Gurashi says nothing, their trip tight on you though they do not move, still leaning against Tridemon, listening.

(And Everything Nice): Gurashi says, "I specifically am trying to avoid fights reee."

Tridemon reaches over and ruffles Gurashi's hair fondly.
Tridemon reaches over and ruffles your hair with a fond expression.

You have emoted: Cheliyi blinks, and relaxes, sheepish.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "Is O-K."

Faintly, you say, "Sorry, yes. Just a bit on edge."

Gurashi shakes their head.
Again, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "Is O-K."

Aquamantic symbols suddenly project themselves upon the very air in dark blue light, fading after a brief moment.

(And Everything Nice): Gurashi says, "The light caress of rose petals along your cheek and the smell of the summer breeze alerts you to the whispered voice of the Thorns, saying, only to you, "Thank you for Aknarin, child. Your work is almost finished, and then you may earn My trust." A single heartbeat passes, and then the caressing petals sting, as if they were thorns themselves."

Gurashi swallows hard, their grip still painfully tight on your shoulder as they stare off beyond the cave, intense.

You have emoted: Cheliyi watches Gurashi, growing tense once more.

Quietly, you say, "Are you sure it's okay?"

Voice rising an octave, soft but strained, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Yes." They smile, tired. "Is O-K."

Gurashi reaches out at last, and very gently boops the air before your nose, not quite touching it so as not to make her sneeze.

You have emoted: Cheliyi narrows her gaze, clearly disbelieving in Gurashi's words. Still, she says nothing, instead smiling faintly at the clear distraction.
You hug Gurashi as best as you can, pulling them into a tight embrace.

Tridemon pets Gurashi ingratiatingly.

Your mind clouds for the briefest moment, overcome with a cloying waft of roses. From all around you, the Summer Bloom's voice whispers, only to you, "Your festival was illuminating, Minister. I look forward to more of your work." You feel a caress along your cheek, as if it were a mother's touch that you feel. Before the sensation fades completely, you feel a kiss upon your forehead and watch as the shadows, no longer disturbed by the presence, return to normal.

Gurashi seems distracted, on edge, as if waiting, listening, returning the hug.

You blink.

You have emoted: Cheliyi suddenly looks devastated, staring down at her hands.

You think to yourself: But... I'm -leaving-. **a sudden uncertainty, should you...?**.

You think to yourself: **the ache in your chest flaring anew, quiet and sharp, guilty, ungrateful**.

Tridemon hugs you compassionately.

You see Viravain, Lady of the Thorns in your mind's eye, holding a seedling bearing your name. Lovingly, She adds it to Her Garden, and you know that your death is merely a part of Her Web -- that She is the Gardener Who turns the Seasons of your life.

Gurashi looks about in confusion.
Refocusing, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks, "Mine-child?"

You have emoted: Cheliyi stares blankly into the distance, unresponsive to the hug as she just looks even more upset. "She... Lady Viravain is proud of me?"

Gurashi blinks.

You think to yourself: **with the sudden vulnerability, the whispers rush in, you should come home, stop this foolishness, can't you see?**.

Shoulders bunching as they look around, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks, "She is still here?" They look at Cheliyi, concerned. "What did She say?"

You think to yourself: **g u i l t**.

Her frills twitching, you say, "That... that my festival was enlightening. And that She looks forward to my future works. And She... planted me in Her garden? I think?"

Gurashi blinks.

You think to yourself: **see, it -is- a betrayal, cease this, do not choose wrong** I...

Confused, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks, "...planted ...but you are here?"

Faintly, you say, "It... um. Was a seedling with my name, I think. Not me."

Gurashi's eyes widen as they stare at you.

You have emoted: Cheliyi's expression screws up with a mix of devastation and deep confusion.

Quietly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "....is O-K."

Tridemon wraps his arms around you.

Fainter, you say, "I thought... I would leave because I was not making anyone happy in Glomdoring, and -I- was not happy, but..."

You lean on Tridemon seeking consolation.
Tridemon pointedly doesn't look at the scar on Gurashi's cheek.

Staring blankly, you say, "I don't..."
You let loose a long breath from your lungs, exhaling slowly.
Suddenly unsure, you say, "I... I -want- to leave. But I don't want to just..."
Fretting, you say, "Insult Her when She is..."
You have emoted: Cheliyi puts her head in her hands.

Gurashi stares at you, wide-eyed and concerned, their hands resting on the mugwump's shoulders.
Suddenly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "Do not... forget..."
Gurashi a long pause, their expression gaunt. "...the way that felt. Before."
Unable to meet Cheliyi's face, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "...when you -were- more sure..."

You close your eyes and inhale deeply, absorbing the scent of your surroundings.
You let loose a long breath from your lungs, exhaling slowly.

You have emoted: Cheliyi finally looks back up, still frowning, but less shaken.

Faintly, you say, "I... yes."
Sighing, you say, "It... it does not change that I am not a good fit for Her garden. It is nice, though, that She liked my festival."

You think to yourself: **the whispers disappointed as the ache subsides, slipping away as the opportunity closes**.

Gurashi stares ahead, looking utterly wounded.

(And Everything Nice): Gurashi says, "Ow."

You blink incredulously at Gurashi.
You grab protectively at Gurashi.
You hug Gurashi as best as you can, pulling them into a tight embrace.
Quietly, you say, "Do not know how to help you with whatever is wrong, but I am here too, okay? Love you."

Tridemon gasps in delight, reaching out to boop Gurashi lightly on the nose with his finger.

Gurashi nods once, their attention returning to your face, eyes refocusing. "Yes," They say suddenly, lip twitching as it curls into a smile. "No. Just. Know is hard for you."

Tridemon ponders Gurashi thoughtfully, looking them up and down.

Tridemon leans in to give Gurashi several gentle kisses on the neck and ears.

The ever-present sense of your heartbeat thrums, beating to the rhythmic pulse of the Drums of the Dead.

Gurashi looks at Tridemon at this, their face staying devoid of its usual panicked blushing. "...was just telling Cheliyi..."

You think to yourself: **the ache swelling and falling, like you're on a shaking aethership**.

Tridemon narrows his eyes to thin slits.

You frown at Gurashi.

You think to yourself: **... where is the flailing?**.

Quietly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "...when you are there, is very warm, yes...and feel very safe and wanted..."

Gurashi trails off in their thought, staring at something unseen.

You have emoted: Cheliyi follows Gurashi's gaze, holding one of their hands in a tight, protective grip.

A wave of psionic energy emerges from the lucidian holding you, wrapping around you in a honey-thick blanket of love and affection.

You blink.
The ghost of a smile passes fleetingly across your lips as you glance at Tridemon.
You snuggle close to Tridemon and lean comfortably on him.

Gurashi looks towards Tridemon at the psionic pulse, then at you, bouncing between awareness and daydreaming. They frown apologetically. "Sorry...uhm. Forgot where was..."

Frowning, you say, "Mm. Are you alright?"

Suddenly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says to you, "You threw a very goodly festival - you did Her very proud, yes. Is true."

You have emoted: Cheliyi frowns deeper. "I... alright. But are you alright?"

With a blink, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks you, "Eh?"
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend asks, "Me?"

You have emoted: Cheliyi gives Gurashi's hand a gentle squeeze and nods, still frowning.

Gurashi nods furiously. "Yes! Yes. No. Just remembering."

You reach out through your bond with Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow and summon him from the stables. You sense him answering your call.

You give Gurashi a friendly squeeze.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow trots in with head high, butting you gently with his head.

Gurashi pets you ingratiatingly.
Gurashi looks up, cautious.
Gurashi leans against Tridemon, eyes half-closing.

Tridemon reaches out and touches Gurashi.

Making a grand entrance, Dolly d'Amour flounces in and hands Tridemon a heart-shaped box with bronze bells.
Blowing a big kiss, she disappears in a burst of tiny hearts and bubbles.
Tridemon carefully unwraps a heart-shaped box with bronze bells, which releases a fountain of bubbles that burst into tiny hearts which then transform into 2 divinely wrapped presents.
Tridemon quickly unwraps a divinely wrapped present, which sprays glittering silver dust and cheerful confetti into the air, and grins enormously upon receiving 6 Wondercrystals.
Tridemon quickly unwraps a divinely wrapped present, which sprays glittering silver dust and cheerful confetti into the air, and grins enormously upon receiving a shadow-bound leprechaun.

You stare blankly into space.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "...a...am sorry." They reach up to rub their head. "Sorry, suddenly head feels all foggy and full, yeah."

Tridemon drops a crystal of wonder to the ground and quickly slips on The Opulent Boots of the Incompetent Jockey. He raises his leg before slamming his heel into the crystal, the dust escaping solidifying around his boots.
Tridemon drops a crystal of wonder to the ground and quickly slips on The Opulent Boots of the Incompetent Jockey. He raises his leg before slamming his heel into the crystal, the dust escaping solidifying around his boots.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Do not mean to be so quiet."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Hmm."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to Gurashi, "Wonderwings or wondermask?"

You ponder the situation.
Gurashi holds up two fingers.

Tridemon holds a gleaming crystal of wonder before his face and stares deep into it until a glow appears from within and it transforms into a Mask of Wonder.
Resting the sticky inner surface of a Mask of Wonder on the fingertips of his hand, Tridemon uses the other to carefully affix a gleaming crystal of wonder on its forehead. The gem snaps in place with an audible 'click' and slowly sinks into the surface, seemingly melting, until it is gone altogether.

Tridemon rubs his hands along the outside of The Opulent Boots of the Incompetent Jockey, which quickly begins to twist and melt into a new shape before finally solidifying as Erbo's Polished Boots of the Thrill-Seeking Packmaster.

Gurashi pets you ingratiatingly.

Tridemon pets Gurashi ingratiatingly.

Gurashi leans against Tridemon, eyes half-closing.

You sigh quietly, frills drooping as your tail sags.

Tridemon leans in and kisses Gurashi right along that white lock of hair.

You snuggle close to Tridemon and lean comfortably on him.
The ever-present sense of your heartbeat thrums, beating to the rhythmic pulse of the Drums of the Dead.

Gurashi lets out a sound as they are kissed, shutting their eyes, one arm still tiredly wrapped around the mugwump. "Feel free to talks without me," They huff.

Suddenly, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "...Bizi."
Gurashi narrows their eyes to thin slits.

Bizirik, the leothin trots in with head high, butting Gurashi gently with her head.

Bizirik, the leothin slinks in from seemingly nowhere, looking smug as all Nil.

Cheliyi hums, her eyes flicking down to the forgotten feather. Muginn follows the mugwump's gaze, and narrows his single eye. Deftly, he plucks it out of the sand, gives a firm shake, and sticks it back in your hair.

Bizirik, the leothin watches the shenanigans going on with Cheliyi, sitting down before the group and watching curiously.

Gently swatting away Muginn's beak, you ask Bizirik, the leothin, "And where have -you- been, yes?"

Bizirik, the leothin licks its snout, crystalline bamboo leaves stuck to its body in various places.
Bizirik, the leothin chirps happily.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow stares implacably about himself.
Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow stares implacably at Bizirik, the leothin.

Bizirik, the leothin proceeds to stretch out, bowing playfully before Tridemon and you, awaiting some sort of attention clearly.

Tridemon pets Bizirik, the leothin ingratiatingly.
Bizirik, the leothin stares blankly at Tridemon. After a moment its tail lifts once then thumps back against the ground with potential delight.

Gurashi watches Bizirik, the leothin with one eye open, the other shut, head still leaning against Tridemon.

You have emoted: Cheliyi rolls her eyes, scratching Bizirik, the leothin underneath her chin.

A cloud of several tens of thousands of flying shrimp flies by at breakneck speed.
Your eye immediately notices the flaws in what is obviously an illusion.

Bizirik, the leothin suddenly looks up, eyes widening.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow huffs, and then stares blankly at the cloud before immediately taking off after it.

Bizirik, the leothin rises from its seated position, letting out a loud BARK and chasing after the illusory cloud, momentarily vanishing from sight. They return seconds later, huffing and snuffling in confusion.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow returns, peering suspiciously around the cave.

You give a trillingly melodic laugh, your frills resonating with joy.

Bizirik, the leothin stares implacably at Tridemon.
Bizirik, the leothin stares implacably at you.

You have emoted: Cheliyi bops Tridemon on the head.

Bizirik, the leothin stares implacably at Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow.
Bizirik, the leothin whines pitifully.

Tridemon hums innocently to himself.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow grumbles angrily.
Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow turns his back and pointedly ignores everyone.

You have emoted: Cheliyi wheezes.

Gurashi says nothing, sliding forward a rose-tinted cheesecake instead.

Bizirik, the leothin gives a short gasp of elation.
Bizirik, the leothin proceeds to devour the cake in two messy bites, sending frosting flying.

You giggle happily.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow flinches as a hint of frosting lands on his pristine feathers, and narrows his eye at Bizirik, the leothin.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow clicks his beak menacingly.

Bizirik, the leothin snorts and chomps and snuffles, then gives Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow a sniff, then a frosting-filled lick right across his crow face.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow stares blankly into space.
Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow squawks indignantly, suddenly a mass of undignified, flailing feathers.

You have emoted: Cheliyi falls on her side, giggling until she runs out of breath.

Bizirik, the leothin grins smugly.
Bizirik, the leothin looks entirely unbothered by the crow's upset state of being, tail slapping the ground behind it once.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow glomps Bizirik, the leothin playfully, knocking her over in his enthusiasm.
Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow's beady eye gleams with triumph.

Bizirik, the leothin yowls in delight even as it is 'tackled', flopping over dramatically and tossing its head.

Tridemon whispers something quietly to Gurashi.

Gurashi's open eye flicks to Tridemon as they are spoken to, otherwise immobile, slumped tiredly against the lucidian.

Bizirik, the leothin chirps happily.

In an exaggerated whisper, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to Gurashi, "Do you think Bizi is going to marry Muginn?"

Bizirik, the leothin grins smugly.

Gurashi blinks slowly, then purses their lips.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow settles down atop Bizirik, the leothin's 'fallen' body surprisingly carefully, and begins preening the frosting out of his feathers. He stares blankly at Tridemon, and returns to preening, the clear epitome of dignity.

Bizirik, the leothin attempts to look even more incredible, stretching out on the ground, all six limbs trembling with effort before they flop limply once again.

The rumble of distant thunder heralds Kosuke, the cloud-bound Long as he flies in and loops himself around Gurashi several times, forming an odd cocoon before flying off.

(And Everything Nice): You say, "Lmao Muginn says "i'm not even going to dignify that with an answer"."

The rumble of distant thunder heralds Kosuke, the cloud-bound Long as he flies in and loops himself around you several times like a draconic cocoon, handing you some powderfruit sorbet within before he flies off.

You blink.
You smile softly at some powderfruit sorbet.

The rumble of distant thunder heralds Kosuke, the cloud-bound Long as he flies in and loops himself around Tridemon several times, forming an odd cocoon before flying off.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tikki, "Thank you, sibling. Hope you are well, yes."

Caressing your ear, the voice of Tikki whispers, "You're quite welcome hon! Hope you're feeling better as well!"

Gurashi clicks their tongue against their teeth, slipping something to the downed leothin, who begrudgingly rises to obey.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "Deliver to Tikki."
With a toss of its head and some noisy chatter, Bizirik takes a savory pull-apart bread brimming with seeds and vegetables from Gurashi with its smaller set of forelimbs and scampers off.
Bizirik reappears with a smug look on its face, sauntering up to Gurashi to encircle them endearingly before sitting down, tail slapping the ground once with pride.
Bizirik, the leothin begins to follow Gurashi obediently.

The glittering mist around Muginn burns away, the moaning visages of the damned slowly seeping back into his coat.
As the sun's rays begin to break over the horizon, a slender leothin's amaranthine visage begins to fade back to a soft gray, wings dissolving like mist with the morning light.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow continues to preen, somehow managing to make his wing-feathers pristine once more. He almost goes cross-eyed, staring at the mass of frosting stuck to his head-feathers, and huffs.

You chuckle softly, your frilled tail flicking idly with amusement.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow butts his head up against Bizirik, the leothin, wiping the frosting away on her flank with a smug look in his eye.

To Tridemon, at last, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "....think will have to work up to that sorts of relationships..."

Bizirik, the leothin snorts.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow narrows his eyes at Tridemon in an unnerving manner.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow lifts a dainty hand to his neckline, glancing about with uncertain disdain.

(And Everything Nice): You say, "I... ignore the hand."

Dryly, you say, "His one true love is Nemesis, I think."

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow peers about himself unscrupulously.

Gurashi blinks.
A look of understanding crossing their features, Gurashi nods their head slowly.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow struts up to Gurashi, his beak coming awfully close to their face.
Whispering, Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow says, "Honk."

Gurashi lets out a little sound of surprise, eyes widening, sitting up and leaning back.

You stare blankly into space.
You shudder violently as a chill ripples down your spine.

Gurashi scoots back.

Flicking the corvid on the forehead, you say to Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow, "Stop that, yes."

Tridemon pets Gurashi ingratiatingly.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow hops away, crowing happily.

Tridemon pets you ingratiatingly.

You roll your eyes.
You hug Tridemon as best as you can, pulling them into a tight embrace.
You hug Gurashi as best as you can, pulling them into a tight embrace.

Tridemon pets Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow ingratiatingly.
Muginn glances at Tridemon warily, before nodding once in approval.

Tridemon pets Bizirik, the leothin ingratiatingly.
Bizirik, the leothin stares blankly at Tridemon. After a moment its tail lifts once then thumps back against the ground with potential delight.

Gurashi gives you a friendly squeeze.
Gurashi smiles weakly.

Tridemon pets himself ingratiatingly.

Bizirik's head begins to droop. It opens its great maw and curls back its lips to allow its forked tongue to unfurl as it yawns before snapping its mouth shut.
Bizirik, the leothin sniffs Tridemon, trying to decipher just what that smell emanating from him is.
Bizirik, the leothin tilts her head curiously at Tridemon.
Bizirik, the leothin stretches languidly.

Covering your mouth with webbed fingers, you choke back laughter at Tridemon.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow huffs, and has the decency to look abashed.
Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow haughtily steps over to you and plucks one of the many feathers from her hair, before pausing, and depositing it in Gurashi's lap.

You blink.
You blink.
You blink incredulously at Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow.
Muginn clicks his beak, his feathers ruffling as he blinks up at you with an uncharacteristically fond look in his eye.

Gurashi blinks.

Surprised, you say, "Hm. He is apologizing, I think."

Gurashi takes the feather, lightly twirling it between their fingers. They look at the crow, then nod their head once to show their acceptance.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow huffs and grumbles, settling down to roost at your side.

You pet Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow ingratiatingly.

Muginn clicks his beak, his feathers ruffling as he blinks up at you with an uncharacteristically fond look in his eye.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow's feather seems to have been reinvigorated by his touch, as it it now wavers and shimmers in Gurashi's grasp like it had never left the misty corvid's coat.

You stare blankly at Gurashi.
Slowly, you say, "Okay, he is -really- apologizing, yes."

You pet Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow ingratiatingly.
Muginn clicks his beak, his feathers ruffling as he blinks up at you with an uncharacteristically fond look in his eye.

Sounding exhausted, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "...magics..."

You nod your head emphatically.
You give Gurashi a friendly squeeze.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you ask Gurashi, "Are you needing to sleep?"

Gurashi hesitates. "Am O-K," They murmur, reaching out at last to pat Bizirik, the leothin, who has been patiently waiting on its back for someone to notice and give it scritches. "Just tired."

You pet Bizirik, the leothin ingratiatingly.
Bizirik, the leothin stares blankly at you. After a moment its tail lifts once then thumps back against the ground with potential delight.

Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend says, "Want to make sure all is O-K before rest."
Gurashi nods their head sagely.

Smiling faintly, you say, "Mm. I can understand that feeling, yes."

A light wind whips the cloying scent of roses and congealed blood into your senses, reminding you fondly of home.

Gurashi gives you a friendly squeeze.

---> like, 10 sudden deaths in a row

You stare blankly into space.

(And Everything Nice): Gurashi says, "For glory! lol."

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "I hope they all have death karma, yes."

The soft sounds of a zither being played and the cry of a crane in flight echo in from somewhere.

Gurashi nods their head sagely.
Bright and clear, Gurashi, The Heart's Friend whispers, "Mm..."

The world tilts as you sense Galaphyrae challenge the Domotheos of Life.

Bizirik, the leothin stretches languidly.
Bizirik, the leothin sniffs Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow, trying to decipher just what that smell emanating from him is.
Bizirik, the leothin's ears perk up with a sudden interest.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow ruffles his feathers, peering up at Bizirik, the leothin suspiciously.

Bizirik, the leothin stretches languidly.

Bizirik, the leothin seems to be on the lookout for more shrimp, creeping forward and eventually disappearing from the cave.
With a great sweep of its tail, Bizirik breaks off to the west.

Tridemon ponders the situation.
Tridemon suddenly turns to you, and you watch as he reaches out and lightly boops you on the nose with a finger.

Bizirik slinks in from the west, clicking and thrumming softly.
Bizirik, the leothin returns, disappointingly shrimpless.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow tilts his head curiously at Bizirik, the leothin.
Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow gives a pained sigh.

Gurashi hardly moves even as Tridemon boops you on the nose, shifted slightly by the motion but looking otherwise like they've nodded off.

Inhaling sharply, you sneeze so hard that your frills puff out like balloons.
You stare blankly into space.

Bizirik, the leothin flops down onto the ground.
Bizirik, the leothin snorts, tail slapping the ground once.
Bizirik, the leothin stretches languidly.

Tridemon gives Gurashi a friendly squeeze.

Muginn ruffles his feathers, stirring up puffs of fog.

You snuggle close to Gurashi and lean comfortably on them.

Muginn, the ghost-feathered crow tucks his head under his wing.

Gurashi does not move as they are leaned upon, clearly out like a light. Bizirik observes the settling quiet, then, seeming disinterested, rises slowly and begins to slink off towards the exit of the cave, tail sweeping back and forth.

With a playful chirr, Bizirik turns sharply and scampers off to the west.

(And Everything Nice): Gurashi says, "She's gotta go eat leaves."

Pale gold in hue, the wreath about Gurashi's brow shimmers in a steady pattern, like unto a heartbeat in its gentle pulsations, and crowns Gurashi in a flickering halo before settling still once more.
Light spreads across Gurashi's back in numerous colours and hues, enfolding them like butterfly wings.

Gurashi grows still and their lips begin to move silently.
Gurashi, The Heart's Friend has left the realm of Lusternia.
Gurashi is enveloped in translucent fire for a moment and is gone, their soul safe until they returns to Lusternia.

You snuggle close to Tridemon and lean comfortably on him.

Tridemon pets you ingratiatingly.

The sounds of unseen animals stirring for the coming day are audible behind the gentle whistling of the wind elsewhere in the manse.
The glittering mist around Muginn burns away, the moaning visages of the damned slowly seeping back into his coat.

You think to yourself: **the distant ache... why would She...?**.
You let loose a long breath from your lungs, exhaling slowly.
You snuggle close to Tridemon and lean comfortably on him.

Tridemon pets you ingratiatingly.

Muginn ruffles his feathers, stirring up puffs of fog.

Message #1728 sent by (system) (received: 2021/02/17 00:49:59)
   A letter was recently sent to you by way of a crow! Expect it soon! This message sponsored by the Dark Tidings Postal Service.

You ponder the situation.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "I have a letter to get, yes. I'll be right back."
Leaning forward, you gently press a kiss to Tridemon's brow.

You portal to the Aetherplex Chamber.

The Aetherplex Chamber.
The spherical chamber is formed from a hollow geode comprised of dozens of precious gemstones. Large jagged formations of rubies, sapphires, diamonds and emeralds line the walls and ceiling. The floor has been cut and polished to a brilliant shine, revealing concentric circles of brilliant colours. Upon close examination of the glassy floor, shimmering reflections briefly glide across its smooth surface of wondrous mansions and abodes. A current of electricity continuously runs throughout this mineral wonder, causing tiny sparks to erratically blossom up and down the crystalline formations. Hidden deep within the environment lies a mystic pathway. Shimmering with aetheric energy, a bright glowing portal floats here in midair. Hackles risen, a fierce timberwolf prowls about here. A screech owl is here, surveying the surroundings. There are 2 great brindle mastiffs here. A giant bat hangs here, wings folded about its body and one beady eye open. Several clustered, piebald eyestalks wriggling around attentively, a feral garosaur of bright crimson feather-scales stalks here, stubby, useless wings protruding from the base of his neck. Gazing at nothing at all, a daydreaming philosopher paces here, focused on some inner puzzle. Lil Nemach, Rekath Ryseni of the Sand-sea with a Blank face is here, shrouded. He wields a mechanical cane in his left hand and a fiery basalt staff in his right hand. You see a sign here instructing you to use the PORTAL command to enter the aetherplex system. There is an aetherways portal here.
You see exits leading north (open door), south, out, and through a bright, glowing portal.

You give Velcora a friendly squeeze.
You give a lemon and powderfruit cookie dappled with sugary stars to Mayflower Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Cultural Affairs.
You nod your head sagely.

The loud caw of a crow heralds its entrance, as it drops stygian stationery dusted in shattered starlight into your hands, then disappears into the shadows.

You read what is written on stygian stationery dusted in shattered starlight:

Dearest Pebble in the Pond,

Prophecy once spoken is akin to promise once kept, free will's gift
spilling from fountain's blessing. A whisper in my dark dreams left your
name upon my lips, woken as I was by bleeding roots wrapped upon my
wrist.

Pray tell, sweetheart, why your ripples thread upon the filaments of my
web. Fifteen years it has been since last it trembled. Thus, answers I
await, within the filaments of the black rose in two month's time.

Perhaps bring tea ?

Afollia Ebonrose - Her Spinner of Webs
Stygian stationery dusted in shattered starlight is holding:
Nothing.

Raising her hand in greeting, Velcora says "Hi!"

In a quiet, singsongy vibrato, Mayflower Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Cultural Affairs says, "Sorry...i was lost in my thoughts."
In a quiet, singsongy vibrato, Mayflower Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Cultural Affairs says, "Thank you for this gorgeous cookie."

Velcora chitters to herself with speedy movement of her mandibles.
Velcora gives you a friendly squeeze.

Velcora tentatively sticks out her tongue and licks a lemon and powderfruit cookie dappled with sugary stars.
Velcora sniffs a lemon and powderfruit cookie dappled with sugary stars, trying to decipher just what that smell emanating from it is.
Velcora licks a lemon and powderfruit cookie dappled with sugary stars.
Velcora tickles a lemon and powderfruit cookie dappled with sugary stars mercilessly!
Velcora grabs a lemon and powderfruit cookie dappled with sugary stars and twirls it about in utter glee.
Velcora gives a lemon and powderfruit cookie dappled with sugary stars a peck on the cheek.
Velcora snuggles up close to a lemon and powderfruit cookie dappled with sugary stars, looking happy and content.
Velcora takes a lemon and powderfruit cookie dappled with sugary stars by the hand, draws it into her, and whispers, "I love you, a lemon and powderfruit cookie dappled with sugary stars."
Velcora gazes deep into the soul of a lemon and powderfruit cookie dappled with sugary stars, her heart in her eyes.

You stare blankly at Velcora.

---> look velcora

She is a compound-eyed kephera fragrant demigoddess changeling. Her huge emerald eyes are many-faceted and sparkle brilliantly. Her skin is as black as midnight. She has two long, slender antennae that bob on the top of her head. Her lips are soft and humanoid. She has pale, thin, orange hair that hangs down past her shoulders. Her limbs are quite thin. She has an abdomen and thorax, segmented from each other, but each one possessing certain attractive, curvy, humanoid features. Tattooed on her fingers is an illustration of buzzing yellow bees dripping with pollen. A lush fragrance dances about her as she stands awash in the wild, prismatic colours of a truefavour from Maylea, Bloom of Serenity.
She is wearing:
a translucent crystal bindi
a pair of thin spectacles
clear quartz prayer beads
an ethereal bluebell earring through her right eyebrow
a golden gown of illusory illustrations
an elegant pink rose
a dazzling petal cloak
the Crown of the Kephera Hives
the Flame of dae'Seren.

Velcora beams broadly.
Velcora consumes a lemon and powderfruit cookie dappled with sugary stars leisurely, seeming to enjoy every bite.

Boggling, you ask, "Another shape?"

Velcora nods her head emphatically.

You glance askance at stygian stationery dusted in shattered starlight.

Velcora ponders you thoughtfully, looking you up and down.
Velcora takes a long draught of whiskey.
Velcora's mouth turns up as her face breaks into a smile.

Distracted, you say, "Very nicely, yes."

Velcora's mouth turns up as her face breaks into a smile.

In a quiet, singsongy vibrato, Mayflower Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Cultural Affairs says to you, "Thank you."
Velcora curtseys gracefully before you.
Velcora blushes furiously.

In a quiet, singsongy vibrato, Mayflower Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Cultural Affairs says, "I was going to try to start a rive but tooo many kephera have been syain...perhapssh later they wwill repopulate and i can try aaGain..."
In a quiet, singsongy vibrato, Mayflower Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Cultural Affairs says, "Hiive."

Blinking suddenly, you say, "Ah. Do you need...."

Velcora takes a deep breath, and her very presence seems to brighten.
Velcora stands up a little straighter.

You have emoted: Cheliyi gesture vaguely at A Redesigned Brazier of Dancing Luminescence.

Velcora hugs Mount Zoaka's Aureate Brazier of Extraordinary Feats compassionately.

In a quiet, singsongy vibrato, Mayflower Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Cultural Affairs says, "Thanks for offering."

You chuckle softly, your frilled tail flicking idly with amusement.

Velcora's mouth turns up as her face breaks into a smile.

You glance askance.

Velcora takes a pink carnation from a fesix bag of carrying.
Velcora gives a pink carnation to you.

A whirling cone of snow rises up from the ground, out of which steps Mboagn.
A subtle increase in illumination and a shower of golden fire herald the entrance of a fiery blue phoenix from the ether.
Mboagn squeezes everyone in turn, including you.

You have emoted: Cheliyi blinks, pulling her gaze away from stygian stationery dusted in shattered starlight once more. She smiles, and tucks a pink carnation behind a frill.

A cone of sparkling light rises up around Mboagn and whisks them away.

You slip into a pink carnation.

In a quiet, singsongy vibrato, Mayflower Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Cultural Affairs says, "I don't mean to pry, but...is that a very important letter?"
In a quiet, singsongy vibrato, Mayflower Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Cultural Affairs says, "I'm sorry...that was nosey of me."
Velcora blushes suddenly and glances down at her feet.

Faintly, you say, "Mm. From Miss Afollia. She wants to meet for tea."
You pat Velcora in a friendly manner.

Comprehension flashes across Velcora's face.

Velcora's mouth turns up as her face breaks into a smile.

You have emoted: Cheliyi rubs at her brow. "Well, it was not like I was hiding my plans, no. Had to happen at some point."

Velcora creases her brow in a frown.

You wave your hand dismissively.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "I will be fine."
You hug Velcora as best as you can, pulling them into a tight embrace.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Should go back to my Dad, yes."

In a quiet, singsongy vibrato, Mayflower Velcora Lunarose, Minister of Cultural Affairs says, "I'm around if you'd like to talk."
You smile softly at Velcora.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Perhaps later, yes. Thank you."
You wave goodbye.

You portal to Celestial Leviathan.
This room has not been mapped.

---> zoom zoom back

You have emoted: Cheliyi walks back in and sits down, frowning at stygian stationery dusted in shattered starlight.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to you, "'lo."

You think to yourself: **quiet apprehension, you're going to disappoint her, but you had to face it at some point...**.
Pensively, you say, "Miss Afollia is inviting me for tea in two months."

You give stygian stationery dusted in shattered starlight to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Hmm... Another tea party. One on one?"

Tridemon gives stygian stationery dusted in shattered starlight to you.

The call of a cicada welcomes the setting of the sun and the coming night.

Muginn shakes out his feathers, the plumes suddenly glowing with an ethereal haze. Ripples of mist pool at his talons, writhing with silent, screaming faces that leave hoar-frost in their wake.

You carefully insert stygian stationery dusted in shattered starlight into a delicate letterbox decorated with flowers.

You hum softly, your frills vibrating with song.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "It seems so, yes."
You snuggle close to Tridemon and lean comfortably on him.

Tridemon pets you ingratiatingly.

Closing her eyes, you say, "I... I hope she won't be too upset, no. But, she probably will be."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Mm. Probably."

Tridemon reaches over and ruffles your hair with a fond expression.
You are exhausted and open your mouth in an enormous yawn.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to you, "Are you going to go?"

You shrug helplessly.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "I should get my daily breads, and then sleep, probably."

Tridemon nods his head sagely.
Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Bread's good."

You chuckle softly, your frilled tail flicking idly with amusement.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "... and not just because I got twenty bread from the festival."

You giggle happily.
You hug Tridemon as best as you can, pulling them into a tight embrace.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Do you want to come with, or go to sleep? I'm probably going to go talk to some ghosties."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "On Spectre Isle?"

You shake your head.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "In Paavik."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Mm. No, I'm enemied to Mag and bringing me along would bring you trouble."

You crease your brow in a frown.
You nod your head slowly in understanding.

Leaning forward, you gently press a kiss to Tridemon's brow.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "I'll go tell them to go to sleep, then."
You wave goodbye.

You portal to the Aetherplex Chamber.