"That...does make it very tricky."

LOOK ME
He is an ordinary human wyrden demigod. He stands a few inches short of six feet tall with a slim build. His arms and legs are lanky, square hands nervously balled into fists at his side. His sandy skin has been reddened from exposure to the sun, causing an array of tawny-colored freckles to appear upon his long cheeks and thin, upturned nose. Perhaps the most noteworthy thing about him is his straight mop of fiery red hair, complete with a few strands at his part that to obey the natural laws of gravity. A pair of kind gray eyes gaze out from below red bangs, their hue striking against all the surrounding warm hues. The tips of nine out of his ten fingers have been thoroughly bandaged. Tattooed on his hands is an illustration of a bumblebee constellation.
He is wearing:
an ebon throwover cloak striated with lilac patterns with its hood raised
a circlet of crystal thorns pressed a bit too tightly against his head
Boots of the Wanderer which stop at the knees
a Glomdoring friendship bracelet dangling loosely from his wrist
a silken shirt of rich indigo bunched and tucked in at the sleeves and waist
rugged tan adventuring trousers which hold is figure snugly
the Fingerblade of dha'Wyrden-cree tightly affixed to his left middle finger.

You sense the piercing eyes of Shulamit looking upon you.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism, "Hi! Friend Shulamit!"

You nod your head emphatically.

Shulamit tells you, "Hi hi! I am unsure if Beloved Priest is awake yet. I should ask!"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism, "Oh? Eh? Ah!"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism, "Let me know, dearest Friend Shulamit!!"

Shulamit tells you, "They are!"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism, "Oh!"

Shulamit tells you, "Would you like to come to the Shifting City and meet at their place?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism, "Should I come to Their re-- O-K!"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist, "Am ... so sorry! Friend SHulamit and Friend Aschwar want to see me...!"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist, "I do not want to be rude? They seem ...excited?? But Friend Shulamit is uhm - always excitable."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist, "It may be fast! I will let you know!!"

Xenthos tells you, "I think we should be fine."

Xenthos tells you, "Come join us when you can!"

**big STEPPY**

Ascending a fluttering spiral of veils.
Throughout the location, small dancing flames flicker and spark. Claustrophobic and smelling heavily of burnt resins, this spiraling ascent is tiled in ivory and copper. From above, the sound of laughter, the sound of whispers, the sound of cries of joy and passion echo out, murmuring down through the stone. To either side, lengths of gossamer indigo and copper play, rustling against each other in a play of murmurs: the air is hot and thick with presence, the walls shining with inlay of coppery energies. Oilslick patterns ripple across the silken folds of this veil as it flutters between two paradigms.
You see exits leading up and through a fluttering veil.

Voice bright and clear, you sing, "Ta-da!"

Voice bright and clear, you sing, "Tea with Shulamit and Aschwar - lucky me..."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism, "O-K! Have found the realm! Sorry for the delay!"

A mahogany dining room with succulent-topped tea tables.
This grand room is dominated by an enormous mahogany table, the many chairs encircling it large enough to accommodate sizable individuals. The ceiling is lofty and the floor is a warm-hued wood, well-tended with chaotically-patterned rugs warming the feet at key locations around the room while potted dracaena and fig trees display their lavishly long leaves in every corner. Shelves along the many-windowed walls are filled with a range of knickknacks including framed flowers, small statuettes of wood and stone, vases painted with unusual imagery, jars of sand and, commanding attention, a giant dragon's tooth mounted upon a stand. At the southern end of the room rests a sitting area separated by standing screens decorated with poppies, cherry blossoms and long grasses that reveal several low tea tables and plush sitting-cushions occupying the area, potted succulents serving as centrepieces. The walls are of rich mahogany and at regular intervals are fitted with paper-backed wooden lattices constructed in pleasing geometric patterns, some of the rods weaving and winding in a manner which seems impossible to follow with the eye alone - a suitable complement to the distant vision of the Shifting City visible beyond the villa's walls through the open windows. In the shape of an open palm, a metallic sigil lies here. Looking freshly bathed, Aschwar lingers here with a soft smile on their face. A mischievous, disgustingly cute urchin twirls here.
You see a single exit leading south.

Shulamit acknowledges the point with a grave nod of her head.

You hands fly to your mouth as you give a short gasp of elation.

Shulamit raises her hand in greeting to you and says "Hi!"

Shulamit raises her hand in greeting to Bizirik, the leothin and says "Hi!"
Bizirik, the leothin stares blankly at Shulamit. After a moment its tail lifts once then thumps back against the ground with potential delight.

Throwing up his arms, you exclaim, "Have made it!"

Aschwar laughs lightly, the sound rumbling like a freshly birthed storm.

LOOK ASCHWAR
Radiant gold and inky black compete for prominence in the thick fur that covers this enormous tae'dae's body, the well-groomed hair shifting like fields of wheat and clouds through the night sky with each movement. Despite their thick limbs and ten-and-a-half feet of height, an aura of well-being and contentment radiates off of their body, only enhanced by the gentle smile that is nearly always present on their muzzle. Glittering mis-matched eyes, one brown and one green, stare with a gentle warmth at the world around them, only inches below a pair of fuzzy round ears that have several notches missing from them. A brilliant red hieroglyph crackles in the centre of their forehead, flaring occasionally with small tendrils of red lightning. They are simply dressed in a pair of linen trousers and a hooded vest of the same material which hangs loose and casually upon their frame. The only decoration to be found upon them are a small number of scales and feathers that have been hand-sewn to cover where their heart lies in their chest. A stark contrast to their fur, they wear a pair of brown fuzzy paw boots over their feet.
Aschwar has an air of extreme strength.

Arms raised, you say, "Friend Shulamit! Friend Aschwar! Beloved!"

Bizirik, the leothin chirps happily at Shulamit.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "Hi hi best Gurashi!"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "I brought food to start things off with, yes yes!"

<-- Foodspam

You have emoted: Gurashi jogs up to Shulamit excitedly, rocking from his heels to the balls of his boots. "Ah, have ... also... brought food!" He laughs, clapping a hand against his face. "Lots of food!"

You beam broadly at Aschwar.

Clasping his hands over his heart, you say to Aschwar, "Hello!"

Aschwar turns and looks towards the table, moving and pulling out the two chairs flanking the largest at the head, where they then move and take a seat. "Hello! It is very nice to see you both."

Shulamit nods her head sagely.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "The rock candy cup cakes are me cakes!"

Aschwar tilts their head curiously, and quietly asks Shulamit, "When will friend Gurashi get here?"

Glowing a thoughtful shade of light blue, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "People kept calling me a sugar crystal and licking me, which was uncomfortable, so I made them a rock candy cup cake."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to Aschwar, "Gurashi is...right there!"

Shulamit points accusingly at you.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks a little perplexed, watching Aschwar move about, his head canted to the side. Quickly his attention is drawn back to Shulamit, smiling. "Ah! You cakes! OH I should have brought the tarts that made you..."

You blink.

You blink.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "... oh!"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Is Gurashi invisible?"

Shulamit peers around herself unscrupulously, glowing a suspicious shade of slate grey.

You have emoted: Gurashi claps a hand audibly on his face, a horrified expression crossing his features. "...Oh!"

With a happy smile, Aschwar exclaims, "I see Bizi, but I do...no, that is not friend Gurashi! Friend Gurashi is very tall, and has tough parts!"

Voice bright and clear, you exclaim to Aschwar, "...ahhhhhhh!!!"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to Aschwar, "Oh? Oh! He's in a human body currently. Very squishy."

Shulamit pokes you in the belly.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Very squishy."

You have emoted: Gurashi covers his face with both hands, then drops them, looking up at Aschwar, wide eyed and laughing. "Friend... Friend Aschwar is me! Is me! Gurashi! Promise! Is magic! Just pretend. A disguise!"

Thoughtfully, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Some people change their bodies often. I've only changed twice."

Embarrassed, you say, "I-I couldn't sit on the swings, so..."

Voice bright and clear, you whisper, "Now, have a real people butt."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "I don't think Gurashi is a changeling though. Just illuuuuusions."

You nod your head sagely at Shulamit.

Shulamit pats you in a friendly manner.

You beam broadly at Shulamit.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to Aschwar, "Beloved Ixchilgal and Beloved Alary change their forms very often, as they are changelings. Some people try and mimic that with...fancy illusions."

Aschwar's eyes close slightly in confusion, and then widen in wonder as they stand back up from the table and move quickly towards you, crossing the distance in much shorter time than could be expected. "...people can DO that?!" They lean down and stare intensely at your eyes, and then they beam in delight before scooping you into their arms, lifting you into a tight hug that nearly buries you in their fur, "It is you! You are so small now!"

Shulamit appears to puff up slightly as her entire body glows a cheerful shade of citrine yellow.
With a flourish of his arm, Ixchilgal bows deeply.

Shulamit boggles at Ixchilgal, sending astonished shades of mauve bouncing around the room.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Speak of the devil, and he appears!"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to Ixchilgal, "Now see, I have to get out food for you!"

You have emoted: Gurashi stares back with equal ferocity at Aschwar as they are scrutinized... then lets out an audible squeal as he is scooped up, lost in all the fur of the embrace. "Yes!" He calls out, laughing and returning the embrace. "Is me!"

Shulamit grouse around mildly, but only pretending.

Lord of the Powerblock, Ixchilgal Mes'ard, Mr. Grumpy Face says, "That is alright, Shulamit."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to
After a few moments of the embrace, Aschwar carefully lets you back down to the floor, smiling broadly and looking towards Ixchilgal, "Oh, there are lots of friends coming to visit!"

Bursting with excitement, you exclaim to Aschwar, "Am pocket-sized to you like this! Wowee!"

Aschwar laughs as they look down at you, nodding and exclaiming in similar excitement, "It would take two of you to touch the top of my head!"

Shulamit carefully places Ixchilgal's food items on the table next to the others.

Ixchilgal bows respectfully to Aschwar.

Lord of the Powerblock, Ixchilgal Mes'ard, Mr. Grumpy Face says, "We are grateful you would still call us such, Beloved Liar."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "All the friends!"

You have emoted: Gurashi shimmies in his spot excitedly, reaching out to take Aschwar's paw. "I brought food! Like Friend Shulamit, and uhm, Mister I... I do not know how to say your name so easily. Ixchiligallal? Am sorry. Like him too."

Thoughtfully, Aschwar says, "Well, if you were not my friend, and you came here thinking that I was mad at you, then you would have to be very not smart. And I know better than that."

Whispering, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "I just usually call him Ixi, it's easier."

Lord of the Powerblock, Ixchilgal Mes'ard, Mr. Grumpy Face says, "Our smartness varies from day to day."

Aschwar nods their head sagely, turning and gesturing to the table, "We should sit! I have seen this in many picture books, of people having nice food at a big table."

Shulamit nods her head emphatically.

With an excitable gasp, you say, "Oh! Yeah yeah! Oh - er."

Shulamit inches over to one of the chairs and sits down.

Shulamit sits herself down.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks about at the chairs, tapping his fingers together. "Where would like me to sit?"

You tilt your head curiously at Aschwar.

Voice bright and clear, you say to Aschwar, "It is your house - you pick!"

Shulamit shuffles in her seat, looking around the room.

Aschwar pulls out a third chair for Ixchilgal, to the left of Shulamit's, and then seems to have a thought before ambling about to the other side of the table to pull out the seat second away from the head of the table, simply saying, "For Bizi to sit, too!" With that done, they turn and move to the largest seat once more, sitting comfortably and beaming about.

You hands fly to your mouth as you give a short gasp of elation.

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.

Shulamit reaches over to pet Bizirik on the head before he's seated, glowing a soft pink colour.

Shulamit hums a happy tune.

Bizirik, the leothin lets out a soft series of grumbles and snorts, licking its lips and approaching one of the chairs, sniffing it. It looks at Gurashi, a smug little grin gracing its features as it climbs up, and sits, looking quite out of place.

Sinking to sit in the seat between the head of the table and his seated leothin, you say to Bizirik, the leothin, "... beautiful!"

You beam broadly.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to Ixchilgal, "Sit, sit!"

You think to yourself: Ahh! This is so nice! A real whole teaparty!

You think to yourself: Finally!

Shulamit peers at Ixchilgal with narrowed eyes, glowing a suspicious shade of slate grey.

You think to yourself: Oh - have a lot of food... but, do not want to let these other yummy foods get missed...

You have emoted: Gurashi glances about the table at the many foodstuffs littering its surface, canting his head excitedly.

Ixchilgal steps down off of Xytheros, the Mechanical Wyrm.

Shulamit looks at Ixchilgal confused for a moment before turning towards you very seriously. "I was...oh! Good. He is safe."

Ixchilgal navigates himself to the offered chair and sits down, keeping carefully silent for the moment as he watches things unfold.

Glowing cheerfully ivory, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "I have...two things!"

With a warm laugh, you say, "Who, Mister Ixchilgal? Yeah! And we would guard him if wasn't yeah yeah."

You have emoted: Gurashi turns forward to face Shulamit, eyes widening. "Two things?"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "One is a gift, and one is a topic of discussion."

Shulamit nods solemnly.

You have emoted: Gurashi leans forward so his elbows rest on the table, chin in his hands. "Oh gosh."

Glowing brightly, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "Which would you like to start with?"

"Gifts first!" Aschwar proclaims, laying their paws out on the table before them. "That way, we have lots of nice feelings to go into the talk with!"

Voice bright and clear, you say to Shulamit, "Uhm. Topics of discussion without saying what the topic is is how peoples cleverly say 'this is a big talk'"

You wink conspiratorially at Shulamit.

Shulamit rummages in her pouch, pulling something out and nodding to Aschwar.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks up to Aschwar, perking up. "Yeah! Gifts!"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "Or maybe I am very bad at talks."

Shulamit nods solemnly.

Voice bright and clear, you exclaim to Shulamit, "But have to slow down Friend Shulamit! You design so many gifts for me, I have only gotten you one!"

"Tada!" Shulamit says to a ceremonial Undervault themed tea set with a proud expression on her face.

You have emoted: Gurashi huffs. "Cannot keep up with all the kindnesses!"

You blink.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "A teaset! Designed of you! Although...it's a bit oddly shaped in areas. It was hard shaping to fit a tea pot."

Shulamit gives a ceremonial Undervault themed tea set to you.

Aschwar's eyes widen as they watch the tea set pass hands, gasping in delight at the design.

Shulamit hums a soft tune as she hands over the tea set, careful to keep the tea cups level and even on the platter.

You have emoted: Gurashi takes the tea sea, his expression changing from delighted to awed. He carefully sets it down on the table in front of him, marveling over the pieces. "Oh... what."

Carved from onyx and obsidian set upon a copper tray, this heavy tea set
bears a parade of unique tea cups, stylised to resemble creatures from
the Undervault. Upon closer inspection, it appears to be the same
creature, although in various poses. The odd creature seems to have an
arrow-shaped skull with a noticeable underbite, with an extremely long
tail that is generally wrapped around the tea cup body. Some of the
unique creatures bear tiny bioluminescent markings, painted on with a
mixture of gold ink and inlaid light essence to create the effect. Each
of the cups has the creature in various poses, ranging from playful and
down squat near the tea tray, the interior hollowed out portion wider
than it is tall, to pulled upright nearly as tall as the tea pot, with a
long thin interior cavity to match. A few of the cup creatures seem to
be dressed in Mysraian ceremonial garb carved from ivory, small red
poppies adding colour to the tea cups. Towering over most of the tea
cups is a large copper tea pot, tortuously shaped to resemble a male
kephera. He is bent slightly at the waist, hands held before him holding
an open poppy that works as the tea pot's spout, the centre hollowed out
to allow tea to pour freely. The two petite ivory wings that jut from
his back work as access to the interior of the pot, allowing one to pull
on them and pop out the middle section of his back. He too wears a
ceremonial ivory sari, decorated with copper poppies and indigo
kantharos vessels crafted from inlaid sapphires.

Nodding solemnly, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "I thought about wrapping it up, but I should design a fancy present origami for that, maybe."

Shulamit nods her head sagely.

You have emoted: Gurashi leans forward, taking one of the cups to examine its design, then looks to the tray - the tea pot. His chin quivers and he looks a little lost, hands raised, unsure which to look at next. "Friend Shulamit, it is -breathtaking-."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "I thought a lovely tea set would be nice. Parties, and friends, and shinies."

You blink.

You think to yourself: Oh - this looks a lot like me.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "All the little Bizirik tea cups were fun to carve."

Shulamit nods her head sagely.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks like he might cry, covering his mouth with his hand as he looks across the table to Shulamit again. "I am finding trouble with words...!"

Voice bright and clear, you say, "The feelings am having are too big for words...!"

Aschwar leans forward, staring closely at the tea set before they ask, "Is...that Bizi? And you?" They laugh in delight, eyes shining and reflecting small images of the cups, "It looks so nice, Missus Friend Shulamit!"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to Aschwar, "It is Bizi!"

You have emoted: Gurashi quickly takes one of the cups, turning to Aschwar and standing to hold it up close to the tae'dae's face so they may observe without handling. "Yeah! Look how beautiful!"

Looking a bit concerned, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "Are you okies? Is it...too much gift?"

Voice bright and clear, you exclaim to Shulamit, "Your brain must be a beautiful place, Friend Shulamit! You always have such good ideas!"

Lifting an arm to wipe his eyes on his sleeve, you say, "No! No it is such a good gift!"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "I've seen your designs, you have shiny strong mind as well!"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to Ixchilgal, "And you have a labyrinthine mind that makes amazing maggot art."

Shulamit nods solemnly.

A wry smile spreads across Ixchilgal's face.

Lord of the Powerblock, Ixchilgal Mes'ard, Mr. Grumpy Face says, "Well, the subject was relevant at the time."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to Aschwar, "And you've made many flowers and many people happy. And an amazing memory! I should work on my memory."

Aschwar laughs and leans backwards, "You are all very good at making things!"

You have emoted: Gurashi lowers the cup, then shuffles away from his spot, moving behind where Aschwar is seated and around the table to Shulamit. He does this, so that he may pull the lucidian into a tight embrace, squeezing her tight.

Voice muffled, you say to Shulamit, "You are very good. Many thank yous."

Shulamit taps the side of her head, an almost hollow crystal sound ringing around the room as she winces.
Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "I'm glad you like it!"

Shulamit appears to puff up slightly as her entire body glows a cheerful shade of citrine yellow.

You have emoted: Gurashi pulls back and nods, before very slowly shuffling back to his designated seat. He tucks one leg under himself as he sits again, still examining the set.

Voice bright and clear, you whisper, "Have the perfect tea for it...."

Looking very serious, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "I wanted to discuss the possibility of you joining the Beloved. You are already beloved, but I think you'd be a very good fit among the Beloved as well."

Shulamit looks confused, trying very hard to enunciate the words enough to make sense.

You blink.

You have emoted: Gurashi blinks a few more times.

Ixchilgal slowly relaxes, settling himself into his chair a bit more comfortably. Less tense, he takes a moment to study the various gifts more closely, though still opting to silently refrain from interrupting the conversation.

Aschwar rubs the back of their head and says, "Oh, the flowers are jus--" They hear Shulamit's words and their voice dies off, looking towards you and watching for your response.

Looking around, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "I may be acting too serious, as it is a happy question."

Shulamit nods her head sagely.

Shulamit watches you thoughtfully, glowing a soft shade of amber mixed with indigo.

You have emoted: Gurashi continues to blink, sitting up a little straighter in his chair. He cants his head, confused, looking at Shulamit, then at Aschwar, then back to Shulamit ... over to Ixchilgal ..... to Bizirik, the leothin, who is stealing one of the cinnamon cupcakes, slowly, unnoticed.

Shulamit continues to watch you, oblivious to the theft of pastries occuring.

Shaking his head, you say, "Wait wait. Wait."

Shulamit waits.

A little confused, you ask, "Want me to be Beloved, but, but, you said am already Beloved?"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "You are a beloved friend. But those of the order are Beloved."

Slowly, you say, "O-K ..."

Shulamit adds extra pomp to the last word, making sure it sounds big and important.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "..... ah - er, ah!"

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly gasps, clutching the cup he'd been holding to his heart, delicately. "Wait - are you asking if want to follow the -Shofets-?"

Shulamit nods her head sagely.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Oh! Yes! That is an easier way of saying it! You're very smart!"

Shulamit nods at you enthusiastically.

Aschwar smiles sheepishly and says, "...well...you are...Beloved, yes, but...to me. I think Missus Friend Shulamit would like you to...become a full Beloved, yes." They do not offer any indication in their voice, posture, or eyes as to how they feel on the subject, simply repeating the information and watching.

Shulamit nods her head sagely at Aschwar.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "It's a big question! But unasked it will never get asked."

Shulamit nods her head sagely.

You have emoted: Gurashi opens his mouth, then shuts it again, clearly taken aback. "...f-forgive my silence," He manages to eek out, "Is ... have - uh."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "...is a big question, indeed..."

Reaching an arm across the table and patting your hand, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "It is a big question, and if the answer is no, know you will always be beloved."

Looking confused at herself, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "We will always care for you?"

Shulamit nods her head sagely.

Gently, Aschwar reaches out and rests a paw near to you, the pads of their palm up to allow for you to take it. "You do not have to say anything right away, Friend Gurashi. You can think, for as long as you like."
Shulamit nods at Aschwar, agreeing with them.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks down at his hand, then back up at Shulamit, then slowly up to Aschwar. He eventually lays his free hand in the tae'dae's paw, pursing his lips.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "Time is here! More so than ever, what with the seal now?"

You think to yourself: ...worship the Shofets?

Shulamit looks confused, counting on her fingers as she silently mouths the different Seals.

You think to yourself: Would be able to help Friend Aschwar even more, then ...

You think to yourself: And would be able to help the Shofets with Their problems too! Oh! ...but would They like me.

As you lay your hand gently on the tae'dae's paw, the ever-present buzzing in the back of your head seems to quiet, until it is only audible through direct effort. Subdued, quiet, and replaced with a gentle, comforting silence.

After a thoughtful silence, you say, "... ... mm - have always imagined that... worshipping the Divine is kind of like..."

Shulamit hums a soft tune under her breath, glowing soothing shades of indigo and ivory.

Shulamit tilts her head and listens intently to you.

You have emoted: Gurashi stares at his hand, his voice quiet as he chooses his words carefully. ".... worshipping the Divine must be, like ... having a friend. Uhm." He curls his fingers into a fist. "Except maybe that friend is like, better than you in everything. Haha."

Glowing softly and allowing Gurashi time to think, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to Ixchilgal, "Do you still have your you tapestry? Oh! Hm."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "...but, you do not resent Them for it. You want Them to be happy and succeed because that is what friends do."

You glance askance at Shulamit.

Acknowledging your point to be true, Shulamit nods her head gravely at you.

Quickly quieting, you say to Shulamit, "Sorry."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "Oh no no! I was just yattering to Ixi, as he was quiet."

Shulamit nods her head sagely.

"But They still do like us. And need us." Aschwar says quietly, smiling softly. "Sometimes, there are things we can do, that They cannot."

Ixchilgal coughs softly.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "We make Them stronger by being there for Them."

Lord of the Powerblock, Ixchilgal Mes'ard, Mr. Grumpy Face says, "Sorry, our us tapestry is hanging up."

Shulamit nods her head sagely at Ixchilgal.

Looking first at Shulamit, then back up to Aschwar, you say, "Feel like everybody around me has some sort of connection to the Divines. Somebody that calls them, yeah?"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "Many do, but some never find One that they feel connected to. And that is okay!"

Looking back down, you say, "Hrm. All the Divines are all so big, though. And scary. And the way peoples talk about Them make Them sound so... unapproachable. And peoples say They can't like, comprehend the way we live our lives? And that makes me a little -sad-."

Almost conspiratorially, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "I like being in an order, for it is warm, and comforting, and a common goal, or...something."

Shulamit nods her head sagely.

"Do you believe that?" Aschwar asks, not with any hint of accusation, but genuine curiosity.

Shulamit ponders the situation.

You have emoted: Gurashi shrugs a little. ".... I only know how -I- would feel."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "I think I would not like to be held so high on a pedestal like that."

Staring off into space, you say, "But a lot of Them really seem that way...."

Shulamit nods to herself as she thinks of something.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "... just .... I would like very much if could follow a Divine that would be, uh, my friend!"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "Maybe it is an air some exude! Some are very hurt, I think."

Aschwar listens, nodding their head slowly in understanding. "Like who? I only really know my Shofets, not...any other Shofets."

You have emoted: Gurashi nods, sniffling a bit, drumming a finger against Aschwar's paw pad. "Mm. Like Mister Lord Silence? From the Glomdoring." He glances down. "We have had many run-ins. I do not think He likes me so much." He huffs. "He ... makes my heart race, and says big, scary things... I do not think it is His fault. He is shadows, and things."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "He seems like He could -really- use a friend."

You have emoted: Gurashi sighs miserably. "But am not that friend."

Shulamit glows a soothing shade of cream, patting you across the table.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Lord Nocht's...domain? Can be scary. But without light and sound, there'd be no shadows and silence, right?"

Aschwar nods their head slowly. Then, carefully, they ask, "...and what do you think...of my Shofet? Even if it is scary, or mean, I will not be mad to hear."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "And, I LOVE the Lady of Roses! Soooo much! She is so beautiful! And She MADE the Glomdoring! How wonderful is -that-? But..." He rests a hand on his cheek, glancing down. "She is maybe -too- much for me. So server Her best that can but worry maybe wouldn't ever be enough..."

Voice bright and clear, you ask, "Oh ... the Shofets?"

You think to yourself: .... *a churn of feelings ... a desire to help and protect, to care for*.

Aschwar nods their head and says, "But can talk about your Rose Shofet first, if you want! I did not know you had so many!"

You shake your head.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Is O-K ..."

Voice bright and clear, you say to Shulamit, "And ... His realm is a little scary, yeah. Is also beautiful. But, is quiet..."

Tilting their head to the side, Aschwar says, "Or...maybe I remember now...but it was a very long time ago, and I did not meet Them much..."

Shulamit nods at you, humming a bit.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "I enjoy the city, even when it...falls. It always comes back."

Voice bright and clear, you say to Aschwar, "The Glomdoring has four Divine, actually... only two come around, these days. But, yes. The Lady of Roses made the Glomdoring, and so She made my home and so feel very devoted to Her...."

You nod your head slowly in understanding.

Shulamit hums happily.

You tilt your head curiously at Shulamit.

The perception of time momentarily slows to a fraction as Lachesis studies the Tapestry of Fate, carefully measuring each strand before making notations in a great tome. Time rushes forward as the memory fades, yet the feeling remains that your history in Lusternia is recorded in the great annals of fate, for better or for worse.

Looking down, you say, "There's also the Lord Predator and Mister Manteekan. Lots of peoples like them..."

Shulamit waves an arm at the wall, indicating the Shifting City outside.

You have emoted: Gurashi glances up at the weave change, wrinkling his nose as he sniffs, returning his gaze to Aschwar.

Aschwar's odd-coloured gaze remains gently on you, blinking every so often as they smile with encouragement.

Shulamit listens intently to you, but looks around the room, eyes soft.

You have emoted: Gurashi returns the gaze, pausing to collect his words. "....as for YOUR Shofets? The Shofets now?" He pauses ....

Gently, you say to Aschwar, "Saw in your story, about how... much They have suffered. In Their journeys, across places and times and things."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Big stuffs."

You think to yourself: *remembering the ferocious rage of the Shofet .... the agonizing, rage-filled screams of the wasp princess*.

Aschwar's smile grows so much sadder at the mention, and they nod their head once. "...there is a lot more. They have hurt...lots." For the first time since you started talking, they look up at Ixchilgal and Shulamit. "I bet the Beloved know, almost as much as me. They were here to see it, and feel it...not just learn it through the Book, like me."

Ixchilgal tilts his head backwards and draws his arms up, delicately weaving threads of burning illusion into the shape of an all-seeing eye, which he leaves floating darkly above his head.

Softly, you say, "Mm .... yeah ..."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "And, think that is party why maybe are so angry."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Because when you are hurting, it is hard to know how to react."
You twiddle your thumbs.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Sometimes when you hurt, you lash out, yes yes."

You nod your head at Shulamit.

Resolutely, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "But we can be there to help, once the lashing out is done, or during, or...to be there."

Voice bright and clear, you say to Aschwar, "I have heard many lovely tales about the Shofets! From the Before-Shofets, because there are other Shofets? I do not know. And I think that This Shofets must also be good."

Voice bright and clear, you say to Aschwar, "Just... hurting."

Acknowledging your point to be true, Shulamit nods her head gravely at you.

You think to yourself: *a wave of sympathy*.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "The Shofet can take on many forms. I think like you being a human sometimes, only not skin deep. You know?"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "But since They are hurting, maybe not currently. Too much hurt."

It is now the 9th of Tzarin, 558 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 1 days until the New Moon

Aschwar nods their head, even though it is clear in their eyes they are not fully understanding. "It is why I am here. I am Their best friend! And They love the Beloved too, just as much. They just...the Beloved have to do even more than me, because of that Portal thingy."

Smiling tiredly, you say to Aschwar, "Is the burden of destiny, yes!"

You have emoted: Gurashi's gaze drifts back to the table, and he looks quite sad.

Solemnly, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "We go through the portal and then...feel compelled to do many things, maybe. Too many, sometimes."

Aschwar gently squeezes your hand, smiling softly at you. "Friend Tsakali says...it is okay to do something, just because you want to. Destiny is very bad, sometimes, and it is good to not follow destiny."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks up at Aschwar suddenly, eyes widening.

You think to yourself: **for a moment, the Lady of Rose's voice: "Will you sting for Me?"**.

A wave of comfortable serenity washing through the room as they speak, Aschwar says, "It is our choices, and what we choose to do with our lives, that make up our Will. It is what makes us special. It is why the Shofet is a Divine of Chaos. Because in chaos, you can choose whatever it is you would like to do."

With a slow nod to Aschwar, Shulamit shows her understanding.

With a soft smile, Aschwar says, "Like running away from home, and saving a friend, and coming to a whole new world, where you meet so many new friends. And find a new home. And don't get hurt like you used to."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "And can change, if you'd like. Forever. Or be an island of what you are."

You have emoted: Gurashi nods finally, slowly, squeezing the tae'dae's paw back gently in response to the words.

You have emoted: Gurashi smiles weakly.

Aschwar says, "It is okay, to look at your destiny, I think, and say no thank you."

You have emoted: His eyes slowly starting to shine as they fill with tears, Gurashi nods, speaking as if in a daze. "... I would want to help the Shofets, too, yes... but, oh, my -home-..."

Ixchilgal finally speaks, slowly, apparently trying to pick his words carefully. "We are...not always a good friend. When it comes to hurting, we're usually better than giving than taking away. Even when we try to do good, we often find ourself way off target. We think..." He frowns, clearly having trouble finding the right word for a moment. "We think that maybe it's enough to try and be a friend, even if you don't manage to be a perfect friend."

You think to yourself: The Glomdoring... the Glomdoring! The Glomdoring is everything.

You think to yourself: But so is helping Friend Aschwar! And the Shofets. And helping all of my friends whether they are from the Glomdoring, or New Celest, or even from Gaudiguchs or Serenwildes.

You think to yourself: ...maybe not Magnagora. O-K maybe Magnagora.

Shulamit nods slowly at Ixchilgal, glowing an understanding shade of saffron.

With a soft smile, Aschwar says, "Your home is a very nice place. It is pretty, and filled with nice people, who are your friends. And even...your family."

Weakly, you say to Aschwar, "The Glomdoring -saved- me..."

Aschwar does not say more than that, tactfully silencing themself before they can say anything that might influence you or hint to you as to their personal opinion.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "It is a strong place! I think you can have multiple homes. Maybe? It feels like you can, in my heart. That if I left Gaudiguch, and found a new home, I would also always have a home among the order."

You have emoted: Gurashi swallows hard, looking about as a bit of red flushes to his cheeks and ears. "...I-I don't -want- to leave the Glomdoring though."

With a gentle smile, Aschwar says, "The Shofet saved me. But...They love me, and told me that if I needed to go somewhere else, or just...be different, then They would let me. They saved me, and gave me a life, but They told me it was not...Their life, it was mine."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "Oh! I was not saying you had to! Or should! Oh no."

Nervously, you say to Shulamit, "O-O-K! S-sorry!"

Voice bright and clear, you say to Shulamit, "Misunderstood! Gosh!"

You think to yourself: *heart racing, head rushing, panic--*.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "I would never ask you to leave the Glomdoring, no no."

Quickly, you say, "I do not want to leave the Glomdoring! Ever, never ever! They will have to pick me from the garden like a bad carrot!"

Confused, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Mushy and off white?"

Aschwar shakes their head, then nods it in agreement with Shulamit. "Then you do not have to."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "You would have a home in the Glomdoring, and a home amongst the Beloved. The order? Words."

Shulamit nods sagely, glowing a soft green colour.

You have emoted: Gurashi huffs, then quickly pulls his hand from Aschwar's paw, covering his face. His voice comes miserably through his fingers. "The Glomdoring doesn't -let- us worship gods that are not the Lady of Roses or the Lord Silence or Lord Predator or Mister Manteekan."

Voice still muffled, you say, "So even if want to help the Shofets more than -anything- in the -whole- wide world would have to at least -ask- first."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "They don't? That seems very mean of them."

You think to yourself: *the desire to help intensifies, confusing, mixed with tear of disappointment, of angry gods - worse, an angry Xenthos*.

Shulamit ponders the problem, rolling it around her head as she tilts it this way and that.

Voice still muffled, you say, "Id idn'd frr."

Aschwar does not withdraw their paw, but they do look down at the table with a small frown. "That...does make it very tricky. But...if you do not ask, you do not know what they will say. You are very nice, and they could say yes! Your father is very nice, and so is your family!" They go quiet, the encouragement in their voice a tad weak and they slowly withdraw their paw, "I...do not want you to be sad, though. And whatever you choose, I think it should be your choice."

You think to yourself: Finally ... a Divine that maybe can help and be close friends with and can't even...!

Shulamit nods at Aschwar. "Perhaps your dad would see how much it would make you happy. I think he likes making you happy. Good dads do."

Shulamit nods her head sagely at you.

You have emoted: Gurashi lowers his hands from his face, his cheeks red and eyes watery. "Mm."

Catching Aschwar's expression, you exclaim, "OH! Friend Aschwar!"

Urgently looking to those present, you say, "I .... want ...."

Aschwar looks up with a soft smile towards you, nothing but gentle encouragement on their face. "Yes?"

Shulamit smiles softly at you.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "... oh - dearest friends - want to help so bad. Want to help the Shofets. But I -have- to ask."

Weakly, you say, "The Glomdoring has given me everything, and so it would not be right of me to do something without honoring its opinion about it too."

You sniffle softly.

Ixchilgal creases his brow in a frown.

Shulamit nods slowly. "I understand. Then I will hope they are good and kind and see how much it would make you happy."

Suddenly, you say to Aschwar, "I love you!! So very much, Friend Aschwar!" He turns to look at Shulamit, slapping his hands on the table. "You too, Friend Shulamit!"

Voice bright and clear, you say to Ixchilgal, "Please do not be offended! I do not know you so well - but think I like you!"

Lord of the Powerblock, Ixchilgal Mes'ard, Mr. Grumpy Face says, "We understand. We're difficult enough to like, especially once you get to know us."

Shulamit peers at Ixchilgal with narrowed eyes, glowing a suspicious shade of slate grey.

You boggle at Ixchilgal.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to Ixchilgal, "Lies about yourself! You are very easy to like."

You think to yourself: *a sense of... hope .... no ... quickly, becoming sad. sadder... They wouldn't say yes. would They?*.

Shulamit acknowledges the point with a grave nod of her head.

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

Aschwar smiles softly and says, "I love you too, Friend Gurashi. It is why you are Beloved, to me, no matter what. But...I cannot say much more, because it would not be right. Because I am a Priest, now." They softly ask, "But...promise me one thing?"

You have emoted: Gurashi tilts his head to the side in confusion, looking back up at the tae'dae. "Oh, of course! Friend Aschwar, anything!"

Aschwar fixes their gaze firmly on you and says, "No matter what happens, you will make sure that what you choose to do is because you want to do it. Even if you think it will make me, or Missus Friend Shulamit, or Friend Tsakali, or the Shofets very sad. I care more about making sure that you are happy."

Shulamit tilts her head and listens to you and Aschwar.

Shulamit nods her head at Aschwar.

Acknowledging Aschwar's point to be true, Shulamit nods her head gravely at him.

Showing that he understands, Ixchilgal nods his head slowly.

You have emoted: Gurashi returns Aschwar's gaze, his shoulders sagging a little. After a silent few moments, he nods curtly, sniffling. "...of course, my friend." He smiles, weakly. "Choosing to love a Divine is very big business."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Is why is taking me so long... just want to be able to love Them -so- much and know it yes."

You glance askance.

Aschwar asks, turning in their seat, "Do you need another hug, Best Friend Gurashi?"

Looking down, you ask Aschwar, "Oh... you are comfortable again with hugs?"

You have emoted: Gurashi looks back up ponderously at Aschwar, rising from his chair slowly.

Shulamit appears to puff up slightly as her entire body glows a cheerful shade of citrine yellow.

Aschwar stands up and says, "You are my very bestest friend. So of course you can have a hug!" They extend their arms out wide, looking down at you with a brilliant smile on their face as their eyes shut closed with glee.

You have emoted: Gurashi pushes his chair out, letting his folded leg fall so he may stand up straight. He stares at Aschwar, then closes the short distance between them, throwing himself into the tae'dae and burying his face in their chest. He stands on his very tip toes to reach their great height, even seated.

Shulamit glows a bright indigo colour, watching you and Aschwar hug.

Aschwar laughs lightly and pulls you close, letting you disappear into their fur much as the Shofet has in the past. "It is okay. You will always be my friend, Gurashi." He turns towards Shulamit and gives a strange smile, then looks to Ixchilgal and nods, returning his head to looking down at your hidden form before the exchange can be noticed.

You think to yourself: *joy! and sadness. and guilt, and hope, and fear and confusion and a whole whirlwind of big feelings*.

Embraced in the thick fur of your friend, the sweet scent of honey is overwhelming as the heat of their flesh warms your skin and fills you with a sense of calm and serenity; as though nothing in the world could ever be wrong, again.

You have emoted: Gurashi squeezes Aschwar tighter, best he can though his hands don't come close to touching.

Shulamit hums softly, glowing soothing shades.

Black sand streams through the room, a short amount that wraps in a serpentine fashion around Aschwar's neck before retreating. The scent of cayenne, briefly overwhelming, fades with its passing, leaving only the scent of pastries and honey to overtake after.

Aschwar smiles sadly and gently releases their grip on you, stepping back as they say, "The Shofet is back from Their trip, and They need me. But...you should stay here, and have fun, and enjoy your tea and nice food! I am sorry I cannot stay for it."

You have emoted: Gurashi slowly sinks back to stand flat on his feet, pulling his face from the tae'dae's fur and glancing up, tilting his head.

You think to yourself: Pastries ...

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Spiritous Wraith Esei Shee-Slaugh of the Ascending Dusk, "*soft* No. Will come home soon."

Shulamit nods slowly at Aschwar. "It is important to be there for Them, yes yes."

You have emoted: Gurashi shakes his head quickly. "It is O-K. Am glad They are... back. Ah - tell Them I said hello...?"

You have emoted: Gurashi nervously taps his fingers together.

Aschwar says to Shulamit, "Will you make sure Best Friend Gurashi leaves with a big happy smile, and no sadness?"

Voice bright and clear, you ask, "And that hope They have a nice day?"

You have emoted: Gurashi says this through clenched teeth, tilting his head.

Shulamit nods solemnly to Aschwar.

Aschwar turns and nods affirmatively at you, awkwardly separating their claws as they flash the victory sign. "I will, promise!"

Shulamit picks up a rock candy cup cake.

Shulamit presses a small cup cake into your hand, making sure to not squish it.

You gaze softens as you smile at Shulamit.

You have emoted: Gurashi nods, reaching up to wipe at his eyes and taking the cup cake carefully. "Thank you. All of you, yes."

Voice bright and clear, you exclaim to Aschwar, "Am loving you! Be well!"

Shulamit starts to hum softly, colours shifting through a rainbow of softened hues.

You have emoted: Gurashi lifts an arm to offer a wave and a big, teary-eyed smile.

The scent of honey becomes overpowering and you get one final glimpse of Aschwar waving farewell before a flurry of golden sand swirls up around their form; which they dissolve into a moment later before fading into nothingness.

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly gasps, stuffing the cupcake into his mouth to form his hands into the shape of a heart just as the tae'dae vanishes. "Ahhhhhh," He says into the confection.

Shulamit watches as Aschwar leaves, glowing the same colour as the golden sands.

Shulamit hugs a Liar lyre compassionately, warm shades of pearl bouncing around the room.
Hands unclasping from the crossbar of the lyre, the Liar wraps petite paws around Shulamit's neck, the two of them glowing a soft golden colour together. After a moment, the Liar pulls away, grasping once again at the crossbar of the lyre, stilling into motionlessness once more.

Shulamit reaches over and gently pats you on an arm, glowing soothing shades once more.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Happy things...oh! The tea set glows! I'm not sure you saw when it was dark. Very faintly."

You have emoted: Gurashi sniffles, then looks at Shulamit, as if suddenly coming to. "Oh!"

Shulamit nods her head sagely at you.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "...oh! My gosh."

You have emoted: Gurashi turns to look at the tea set, now seeming a little bedraggled.

Soothingly, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "We'll always be here. And so will food. If either help."

Shulamit nods her head sagely.

You have emoted: Gurashi gently spits the in-tact cupcake back into his hand, a ring of frosting around his lips. "Ah... ah! I also brought food... but didn't want to be rude..."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Mm..."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Oh - here!"

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.

Hurriedly, you give a slice of orange-glazed vanilla cake with chocolate ganache to Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism.

With a gasp, you give a slice of orange-glazed vanilla cake with chocolate ganache to Lord of the Powerblock, Ixchilgal Mes'ard, Mr. Grumpy Face.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Oooo, fancy cake."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Mm!"

Shulamit puts her nose over a slice of orange-glazed vanilla cake with chocolate ganache and inhales.
Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Ooo, citrus and ganache!"

Shulamit quickly devours a slice of orange-glazed vanilla cake with chocolate ganache.

Shulamit nods her head sagely.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Citrus and chocolate seem like an excellent combination."

Shulamit acknowledges the point with a grave nod of her head.

You beam broadly.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Oh! Yeah! I made a platter, yes? It was coincidence - my chocolate oranges..."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "The orange thieves like them too! I meant to make more..."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks down at the table, huffing.

Showing that she understands, Shulamit nods her head slowly.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "I should add more orange desserts to the mix for the thieves."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "I have some orange ice cream inside a hollowed out orange bowl, very fancy."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "But more is always better."

You gaze softens as you smile.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Mm! Am trying to do the same with lemon!"

Shulamit nods her head emphatically.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Citruses!"

You have emoted: Gurashi wipes at his eyes again, distractedly, offering a bright purple and yellow pie to Ixchilgal. "Want one?"

Ixchilgal shakes his head.

Lord of the Powerblock, Ixchilgal Mes'ard, Mr. Grumpy Face says, "No, thank you. We rarely eat."

A wry smile spreads across Ixchilgal's face.

You tilt your head curiously at Ixchilgal.

You nod your head slowly in understanding.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Well just because do not NEED to eat, does not mean do not have to... but respect yes yes."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Instead he makes thousands of noodles."

Shulamit peers at Ixchilgal with narrowed eyes, glowing a suspicious shade of slate grey.

You sniffle softly.

Confused, you ask Shulamit, "...n-noodles?"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "Ebon noodles!"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "He's flooded the basin once more. Or maybe just flooded Aishe."

Lord of the Powerblock, Ixchilgal Mes'ard, Mr. Grumpy Face says, "It is not a matter of not needing to. We...were gluttonous in our youth."

Lord of the Powerblock, Ixchilgal Mes'ard, Mr. Grumpy Face says, "So we rarely eat when we do not need to."

Showing that she understands, Shulamit nods her head slowly.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "I eat to try out my creations before sending them as gifts."

Shulamit acknowledges the point with a grave nod of her head.

You blink.

Surprised, you say, "Oh... I LOVE to eat."

Surprised, you say, "Food is so -amazing- ... and is so much of it. So many kinds, and shapes and flavors and textures. Infinite. Enjoyable... Mm. Sorry! Rambling."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "I do eat a fair deal, as you send food, and Jolanthe sends food, and Coraline sends monstrosities."

Shulamit acknowledges the point with a grave nod of her head.

Lord of the Powerblock, Ixchilgal Mes'ard, Mr. Grumpy Face says, "We enjoy food, too."

Lord of the Powerblock, Ixchilgal Mes'ard, Mr. Grumpy Face says, "But...it does not bring out good things in us."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to Ixchilgal, "I will remove you from the sending gift food to list."

Shulamit nods solemnly.

Voice bright and clear, you ask Ixchilgal, "...good things?"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to Ixchilgal, "You will remain on the lantern list."

With expert precision, Shulamit assembles a snarling ebon jackal sky lantern from a pile of vellum laid before her.

Solemnly, Shulamit gives a snarling ebon jackal sky lantern to Lord of the Powerblock, Ixchilgal Mes'ard, Mr. Grumpy Face.

Giggling, you say, "Is a good list... oh!"

With expert precision, Shulamit assembles a snarling ebon jackal sky lantern from a pile of vellum laid before her.

With especially precise folds, you assemble a grumpy sphynx kitten origami from four sheets of vellum.

Also extremely solemnly, Shulamit gives a snarling ebon jackal sky lantern to you.

You clear your throat in an attempt to gain the attention of those around you.

Shulamit tilts her head and listens intently to you.

You have emoted: Gurashi holds up the sphynx origami, then turns to face Ixchilgal, offering the little papercraft. "Behold. A grumpy friend."

You give a grumpy sphynx kitten origami to Lord of the Powerblock, Ixchilgal Mes'ard, Mr. Grumpy Face.

With a laugh, you give a grumpy sphynx kitten origami to Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism.

Shulamit appears to puff up slightly as her entire body glows a cheerful shade of citrine yellow.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "It is my Fitzroy! Grumpy kittengami!"

You pet a blue-eyed, steely grey sphynx kitten ingratiatingly.
A blue-eyed, steely grey sphynx kitten trills affectionately at you, leaning into your hand while rubbing his mouth against your fingers.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "To actionorigami I love you, very grumpy kitten."

Shulamit looks up into the air for divine inspiration.

You snicker softly to yourself.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "To
kirigamiI love you, very grumpy kitten."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "To kirigami I love you, very grumpy kitten."

Shulamit gives a horrified gasp.

Shulamit's arms fall listlessly to her sides as she hangs her head and intones a sad, disappointed "Drat."

You shake your head.

With especially precise folds, you assemble a grumpy sphynx kitten origami from four sheets of vellum.

Shulamit takes a grumpy sphynx kitten origami by the hand, draws it into her, and whispers, "I love you, a grumpy sphynx kitten origami." <-- amazing

Holding the kitten close to his face, you say, "Hello Mini Fitzroy."

The corners of Ixchilgal's mouth turn up as he grins mischeviously.

You nod your head emphatically.

You beam broadly at Shulamit.

You think to yourself: Have so many things to think about now...

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "Oh! Wait! Another shiny."

You think to yourself: ... clothes for the Friend, and things for Cultures, and ... oh?

You tilt your head curiously.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Oh!"

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Lantern!"

Waving an egregore lantern around, Shulamit gives an ivory egregore skylantern with butterfly wings to you.
Voice bright and clear, you say, "Love!"

You have emoted: Gurashi holds up a lantern in either hand, grinning.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "It's an egregore! I'm designing other order beasts as well, eventually."

Shulamit acknowledges the point with a grave nod of her head.

You give a nest-shaped meringue carrying a chocolate egg to Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism.

"Oooooooooh!" Shulamit says to a nest-shaped meringue carrying a chocolate egg, eyes wide with wonder.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Very very fancy meringue."

Voice bright and clear, you say to Shulamit, "I -made- that yeah."

You give a sliced of marbled chocolate matcha cheesecake to Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism.

Shulamit tentatively sticks out her tongue and licks a nest-shaped meringue carrying a chocolate egg.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Didn't make that. Made it but not -made- it."

You strike a pose.

Shulamit puts her nose over a nest-shaped meringue carrying a chocolate egg and inhales.

You ponder an ivory egregore skylantern with butterfly wings thoughtfully, looking it up and down.

Shulamit consumes a nest-shaped meringue carrying a chocolate egg leisurely, seeming to enjoy every bite.
Voice bright and clear, you say, "Pretty..."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Like a good nest!"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "And gooey!"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "I have a moose lantern, awaiting review."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "...a moose!"

Voice bright and clear, you say, "I have one too, but, is not paper..."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "A real live moosen?"

Glowing an astonished shade of mauve, Shulamit's eyes boggle out in amazement.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "More kittengami taking up all of the bookbinding cartel slots..."

Expression twisting to bewilderment, you ask Shulamit, "...moosen?"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Meese?"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Multiple moose."

Shulamit acknowledges the point with a grave nod of her head.

You have emoted: Gurashi starts giggling, covering his mouth with a hand. "Moose?"

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Multiple moose."

Showing that she understands, Shulamit nods her head slowly.

You gaze softens as you smile at Shulamit.

You think to yourself: ...the Shofets ...

Extremely seriously, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Meese, yes."

Letting his own face grow serious, you say, "Mm."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Whole gaggles of them."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "... do .... multiple moose, gather in gaggles..."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "Have you ever seen them, on their teetering towering leggies? Their plural simply must be a gaggle."

You have emoted: Gurashi slowly looks at Bizirik, the leothin, who has been piece by piece stealing bites from pastries from the table, and eating them, leaving only a few untouched.

Shulamit looks were you is looking, suddenly glowing a brilliant shade of silver. "Oh! You silly leothin!"

Bizirik, the leothin tosses its head, frosting and cinnamon staining the rim of its mouth as it snorts and chatters.

Shulamit giggles happily, glowing bouncing bubbly shades of pink and yellow.

Shulamit reaches over to Bizirik, the leothin and itches her back.
Bizirik, the leothin stares blankly at Shulamit. After a moment its tail lifts once then thumps back against the ground with potential delight.

Shulamit looks over her hand after petting Bizirik, the leothin, making sure no frosting got on her.

Shulamit nods her head sagely.

You chuckle long and heartily.

Placing a hand over Gurashi's hand, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Feeling a bit better, yes yes?"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "We also give hugs, not as good, but very glowing."

You have emoted: Gurashi shakes his head, then reaches up, cupping his own cheek with a hand. "Mm... mm. Yeah." He takes Shulamit's hand as she reaches over, squeezing it. "Yes!"

Shulamit acknowledges the point with a grave nod of her head.

Voice bright and clear, you say to Shulamit, "Am full of lots of big feelings, and ... kind of want to go home to think about them. But."

You ponder a ceremonial Undervault themed tea set thoughtfully, looking it up and down.

Lord of the Powerblock, Ixchilgal Mes'ard, Mr. Grumpy Face says, "We don't hug."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "I want to use this soon."

You narrow your eyes at Ixchilgal, canting your head and peering at him suspiciously.

Voice bright and clear, you say to Ixchilgal, "You should."

You face lights up as you smile brightly at Shulamit.

Extremely confused, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to Ixchilgal, "I hug you constantly."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "Perhaps when you speak with your father! A soothing tea might be good."

Voice bright and clear, you say to Shulamit, "Will you come to a tea party with me and Friend Aschwar and other peoples soon? I will organize it! Somehow."

Shulamit nods her head sagely.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Or that!"

Shulamit nods her head emphatically.

You gaze softens as you smile at Shulamit.

You nod your head emphatically.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "If I am awake, I will, yes yes!"

Voice bright and clear, you ask, "Why not both...?"

You tilt your head curiously.

You beam broadly.

Acknowledging your point to be true, Shulamit nods her head gravely at you.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Very good point. Both is good."

Lord of the Powerblock, Ixchilgal Mes'ard, Mr. Grumpy Face says to Shulamit, "You get to touch us. Most people do not."

You tilt your head curiously at Ixchilgal.

You nod your head slowly in understanding.

Showing that she understands, Shulamit nods her head slowly.

Voice bright and clear, you say to Shulamit, "Think am going to... go home for a little bit? Want to think... about things. And what to say. And how to say. And who to talk to."

You fret over everything that might go wrong.

Voice bright and clear, you say to Shulamit, "I do not want to make Friend Aschwar sad."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "Do not worry. Whatever happens, we will be here."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "The Lady of Roses might eat me? Or Xenthos would be sad - I do not want to make Xenthos sad - he's been trying to make me follow Lord Predator for ages. Hah!"

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "I'm sure they will understand completely."

Shulamit acknowledges the point with a grave nod of her head.

Your eyes raise to the heavens as a look of hope flashes across your face.

You nod your head emphatically.

Ixchilgal gives you a respectful salute.

You have emoted: Gurashi huffs softly, looking around the room, finally smiling.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Does Lady Viravain eat...people? She just flicked me off a mountain once. No nomming."

Shulamit acknowledges the point with a grave nod of her head.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "This was nice. Many thank yous for inviting me."

You stare at Shulamit, eyes wide.

Voice bright and clear, you say to Shulamit, "... a.... I do not know."

You ponder Shulamit thoughtfully, looking her up and down.

You shake your head.

Lord of the Powerblock, Ixchilgal Mes'ard, Mr. Grumpy Face says, "We prefer to remember the Lady Viravain for the time she painted our taint wyrm."

Glowing cheerfully, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says to you, "Thank you for coming. It's been a delight."

You have emoted: Gurashi nods. "Thank you! I ... peoples said that because Gaudiguchs hated us now I couldn't come but."

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Am here!"

You strike a pose.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "A relief."

You gaze softens as you smile.

It is now the 10th of Tzarin, 558 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 32 days until the New Moon

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "It's all good, yes yes!"

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Love you guys! Yes. Very much. Am going to go home now."

You have emoted: Gurashi wanders about the table, leaning down to hug Shulamit about the shoulders. "Thank you Friend Shulamit."

Shulamit hugs you suddenly, glowing cheerful shades of pink and yellow. "Be well!"

You beam broadly.

With a loud yet playful whistle, a mechanical dirigible comes puttering in on currents of air, its metallic claw grasping a heart-shaped peppermint whoopie pie, which it quickly deposits in Shulamit's hands.
A benchmark in gnomish engineering and flight, this lighter-than-air craft bobs up and down on the slightest draft and breeze, yet manages to maintain its general position irrelevant of the strength of the air's pull or push. Gaudily painted in a variety of colours, the bulk of the dirigible is a large, elongated balloon, just over two feet in length. Ridges line the painfully bright skin of the craft, undoubtedly from the support system within. Attached to the base of the blimp is a small cargo unit, the few windows at its fore allowing glimpses of a variety of gears and cogs turning cheerfully within. The unit itself has several valves on it, occasionally emitting whistling steam as it maintains altitude. As if to ensure none could doubt a gnome devised such a thing, a multi-jointed metal arm hangs from the bottom of the dirigible, the end of which is fitted with a metallic claw, designed in mimicry of a mortal's hand for grasping purposes. The arm occasionally whirs to life, extending all the way down before folding back up, as if stretching its metallic joints. He is called 'Puttie.'
A mechanical dirigible looks weak and feeble.
He is strangely weightless.
He is loyal to Jolanthe Myeras.
You cannot see what a mechanical dirigible is holding.
It has the following aliases: dirigible.

Voice bright and clear, you say to Ixchilgal, "Take care!"

You wave goodbye.

Multichromatic glyphs float through your mind's eye, the oddly echoing voice of Mysrai, the Shofet of Abyssal Scales ringing from them, "...remember, well...small one...My City...is not Gaudiguch...nor beholden to its laws..."

A mechanical dirigible bobs up and down on the air currents before jets of steam erupt from several of its valves, then putters off.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Oh..."

Shulamit waves goodbye at you.

Shulamit blinks.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks up suddenly, canting his head, listening...

"Uhh..." stalls Shulamit.

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Oh, Jolanthe."

Glowing in tune with her words, Multifaceted Designer Shulamit Lunarose, Mysrai's Ivory Prism says, "Forever Jolanthe."

Shulamit acknowledges the point with a grave nod of her head.

Ixchilgal nods his head at you.

Softly, you say, "Shofets.... ah - O-K."

You nod your head emphatically.

You quickly bend at the waist to offer a polite half-bow.

You wave goodbye.

Voice bright and clear, you say, "Bye! Be well!"

The villa's cozy living hall.
Mahogany wood panels the walls of this living space, wide windows overlooking the surrounding grounds where distant flowering orchards, enormous monoliths and palm-bordered oases can be viewed. In one corner of the hall resides a simple kitchen furnished with a clay range and oven in addition to intricately-carved floor cabinets and ceramic-bearing hutches depicting various fruit-bearing trees. Another corner of the hall features an easel displaying a half-finished painting, a nearby bench sporting a myriad of brushes and open jars of paint that threaten to spill upon the already-stained mats underfoot. A work table surrounded by large stools occupies another corner, though this space seems to be dedicated to wood carving if one is to judge by the assortment of chisels, knives and wood chips scattered around it. The final corner of the hall is closed off, a glimpse of a latrine visible through the open entryway. A wide, wooden spiral staircase with golden railings occupies the centre of the hall, leading to the atrium below while continuing upwards to meet a vast hatch concealing a higher room from view.
You see exits leading north, up, and down.

You have emoted: Gurashi stops as soon as he's wandered out, looking over his shoulder to see if he can be seen ...

Strange poppies within a verdant atrium.
Myriad stone planters, raised rock-wall gardens and hanging pots overflow with a variety of flora within this revivifying atrium, the vibrant petals of peonies, orchids, azaleas and chrysanthemums providing magnificent drops of colour amongst the greenery. Areca palms spread their narrow-leaved fronds from tall standing pots, shading the various benches and asymmetrical travertine paths that wind through the arrays of plantlife while glassless windows overlooking the villa's environs offer a view of the flower-bedecked trees, pools and towering statues relieving the desert sands that span as far as the eye can see. Before these windows splash fresh waters within an ornate limestone fountain, chaotic carvings decorating its surface while gold leaf spirals around them. Surrounding this fountain are raised tiers lined with a collection of wide-mouthed, soil-filled vases, each nestling its own assortment of curious poppies: among the traditional red, white, yellow and pink blooms are others shaded different hues of the rainbow, some even being composed of entirely different materials altogether. Iridescent chitin, cotton-like fibre, translucent crystal and even a few feathery species gather in clusters, their lofty position suggesting that they are undoubtedly the muse of the garden's caretaker. The centre of the atrium is dominated by a robust spiral staircase of gilded gold railings and cream-hued stone that circles up towards the higher floors of the villa, the structure well-supported upon reinforced pillars.
You see exits leading southeast, south, southwest, and up.

You have emoted: Gurashi gives Bizirik, the leothin a look, eyes wide.

Voice high and panicked, you say to Bizirik, the leothin, "....BiziiiiiiiiiIiiii."

Bizirik, the leothin snorts, offering no consolation.

You fret over everything that might go wrong.

A narrow, claustrophobic cave.
Throughout the location, small dancing flames flicker and spark. Little more than a hollow in the side of the mountains, the interior of this cave is swept with eddying trails of sand from the without. The walls are crude and unmarked by any hand: the ceiling dips low, toothlike protrusions sending flickering shadows over the cavern floor and walls. The air is stale, still, and unmoving; only the murmuring of the desert wind beyond the cavern suggests at the existence of life. Oilslick patterns ripple across the silken folds of this veil as it flutters between two paradigms.
You see exits leading out and through a fluttering veil.

You think to yourself: ... Me?

You have been recognised by Shulamit for: Because Gurashis are good, and hopefully Glomdoring will want to make the Gurashi happy.
You just earned 5 daily credits. You can earn 15 more.

You think to yourself: *a churn of feelings - it... sounds nice*.

You think to yourself: .... *how could They ever agree?*.

You fret over everything that might go wrong.