You hope beyond hope that they heard you.

The air itself seems to shudder as a great wave of alien rage washes away from Avechna's Peak.

**everyone goes to Peak to see**

Silvery cracks spread throughout the Basin, quickly mending themselves as unhinged, maniacal laughter escapes in short bursts.

You blink.

Esei blinks.

Xenthos blinks.

Master Esei of the Ascending Dusk says, "...that does not appear good."

(The Crux): Caohite says, "Ah.. I believe it is the Shofet and Welkin."

You flail about helplessly.

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

(The Crux): Romaan (from the Astral Plane) says, "Are They arguing?"

(The Crux): Caohite says, "She is laughing, They are displeased. Who is to say."

(The Crux): Tridemon says, "Oh, definitely Mysrai."

(The Crux): Tridemon says, "The Shofet is within Their Fulcrux."

Esei blinks.

(The Crux): Ashira says, "You'd all be wise to stay far away."

**time passes, astral hunt happens... decided to go visit Friend Liar at their villa, except, IDK where it is lol**

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.

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

Faintly buzzing, you whisper, "Friend Liar..."

**wander wander**

Faintly buzzing, you whisper, "Do not remember where was at..."

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

You ponder the situation.

You have emoted: Gurashi straightens, clutching his lute tightly as he finds his resolve and resumes walking at a brisk pace across the shifting sands.

Hrm...wasn't it on the lower levels? Yeah, you're pretty sure you remembering running down...

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "Things are ...... different."

Faintly buzzing, you whisper, "Are so many caterpillars...."

**more running - I can see the house but bug keeps me from entering**

Yeah, yeah, this road looks familiar. Now...was it right or left at this turn? You've got to be close to that neighbourhood.

The dock of good intentions.
Throughout the location, small dancing flames flicker and spark. It is not wood or nails that comprises this wharf but pieces of cunningly-fitted volcanic stone, slabs of polished obsidian forming the walkway with pieces of piled basalt supporting them below. The moorings are inlaid with grotesque, albeit skillful, poured-glass decorations that depict creatures which are less actual fiends and more the idea of what Nil's inhabitants might be like as imagined by someone's sheltered merian grandmother; they catch the light of the dock-lamps and sparkle as the star-tossed fog laps against them. Most of the ships here appear to be laden with exotic elixirs, bags of dried animal parts, and fine stationery, though a handful of the smaller craft docked here are instead loaded down with processed and bundled regrets. Copper-clad and gleaming with a mirror-walled lantern at the very top, a beacon looms here at the edge of the dock.
You see a single exit leading south.

Looking up slowly, you say, "... ah..."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Oh ... hrm..."

Scratching his head, you say, "This -feels- right."

You have emoted: Gurashi's mandibles click in confusion.

A lush sandstone courtyard before a grand villa.
Aesthetically geometric sandstone tiles lead the way towards the grand, multi-tiered villa rising ahead. Lush, long-bladed sedge grasses envelop the sand-strewn path, tall clusters of woody bamboo parting nearer the abode where the avenue opens into a large courtyard. Nestled within the grasses are a number of abstract statues depicting noble hawks and cobras, clear water pouring from their beaks and fanged mouths into basins cradled below. Surrounded by an intricate arrangement of small pools and complex fountains, pale stone benches and narrow monoliths of dark marble circle the courtyard, offering opportunities for tranquil rest and reflection. Beyond the yard rise the golden-wood columns of the villa, each supporting wide mahogany eaves from which hang chimes of miniature golden bells interspersed with bright crimson metal poppies that lend their delicate tintinnabulation to the music elicited by even the smallest stirrings of air. The immense statue of a proud jackal rests upon its haunches at the top of the wide sandstone stairs rising before the towering archway that marks the threshold of the villa, the dark animal's triangular ears and snout held high as its scarlet eyes watch over all who pass. Twisting skeins of dreameater silk slowly about its tubular body, a lethargic, many-spined moth caterpillar spins here. A slender leothin sits here motionless, brightening its surroundings with its natural golden bio-luminescence.
You see exits leading east and in.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Oh...!"

You have emoted: Gurashi carefully steps over a spindle-spined moth caterpillar, approaching the door. "Oh, did Friend Ashira say was O-K..."

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

You think to yourself: Their yard is so nice.

You think to yourself: Ahhhh listen to the bells... Friend Liar will love those.

Poking his head inside the door, you say, "Yoo-hoo."

You narrow your eyes, peering about suspiciously.

You ponder a lethargic, spindle-spined moth caterpillar thoughtfully, looking her up and down.

You think to yourself: What ARE Those things. They are everywhere now.

A sandy training yard surrounded by paper walls.
A thick layer of gold and pink sand covers this square yard, the area several dozens of steps wide. Bamboo mats are scattered over the ground, the level of activity which occurs within this space made evident by the sheer amount of sand that has been scattered over them along with their generally tousled nature. Flat piles of rocks and short stone columns offer natural terrain for training mobility, evasion and adaptation, and the walls are framed in wood covered in thick sedge-paper, allowing heat to escape while functionally separating the yard from the rest of the villa. Brushstroke art depicting jackals, hawks, bears and other predatory animals decorate them, doubtlessly serving as inspiration as much as an aesthetic purpose. Against one wall are dark wooden racks of weapons, among them curved swords with hilts of ivory, other weapons intricately carved and beset with jewels while simpler training arms of wood fill a rack of their own. The adjacent wall is lined with cabinets and stands piled with other training gear, light leather armour in various sizes among cloth-padded greaves and bracers. There are 2 lethargic, spindle-spined moths caterpillar here. A slender leothin sits here motionless, brightening its surroundings with its natural golden bio-luminescence.
You see exits leading northeast, east, and southeast.

Glassy spines shimmering with oddly mesmerising slickness, a lethargic moth caterpillar creeps to the southeast.

You think to yourself: ...here too?

You tilt your head curiously.

Faintly buzzing, you ask, ".... Friend Liar does swords?"

You have emoted: Gurashi boggles, shaking his head. "Cannot imagine them with a weapon. Unless weapon is... a hug maybe." He looks aside. "Tae'dae hugs hurt though."

The melodious voice of Tridemon resonates in your mind, "Did you find what you were looking for?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "Got a little lost - but, found it..."

You tilt your head curiously.

Glassy spines shimmering with oddly mesmerising slickness, a lethargic moth caterpillar creeps to the northwest.

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. Twisting skeins of dreameater silk slowly about its tubular body, a lethargic, many-spined moth caterpillar spins here.
You see exits leading southeast, south, southwest, and up.

You think to yourself: Flowers...

You twitch your mandibles as you voice a soft, curious chirr.

The late light of day strikes the stained glass above, reflecting a brilliant panoply of colours that wash over your body in a delightful spray.

You have emoted: Gurashi glances up towards the colorful light as it rains in, unable to hide a smile.

Faintly buzzing, you whisper, "Friend Liar's house is so beautiful ..."

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. A slender leothin sits here motionless, brightening its surroundings with its natural golden bio-luminescence.
You see exits leading north, up, and down.

You think to yourself: Oh - this reminds me of home...

You have emoted: Gurashi pauses to admire the hall, hand resting on the rail of the staircase.

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. A slender leothin sits here motionless, brightening its surroundings with its natural golden bio-luminescence.
You see a single exit leading south.

You have emoted: Gurashi pokes his head in, antennae raised curiously.

You think to yourself: A dining room...

You have emoted: Gurashi pauses, then enters fully, making his way around the seating arrangements, expression unreadable.

You think to yourself: They deserve to be drinking teas and having snacks.

The melodious voice of Tridemon resonates in your mind, "Is the Liar bein' a pokeable bear?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "**No words - just a profound sense of concern and sadness**."

A perfectly peaceful bedroom.
A far, meeker cry from the rest of the house, only the rich paneling of the walls and floors could hint at any opulence within this domed room. A simple reed mat covers the majority of the floor, cut awkwardly to accomodate the hatch leading to the stairs and the rest of the house, the woven plants lined with rabbit moss that cushions the foot and is pleasant to the touch. Enormous pillows and cushions have been piled along the rest of the floor in a large circle that rings the room, thrown this way and that in an effort to create the most cozy place to sleep. Very few personal belongings can be seen in the shelves on the walls; an enormous scarf and apron folded and wrapped around three carved birds, sat next to two books whose titles proclaim them to be 'A Manual to Counting: Numbers One Through Ten' and 'How to Read'. The domed roof above lacks the stained glass prominent throughout the rest of the building, its simple stone make readily distributing the heat absorbed through the day and causing the painted stars upon its surface to shimmer and shine with a realistic glow. Fast asleep, the Liar rests here atop an enormous pile of cushions and pillows. A bright red poppy lies here, petals askew. Like a shadow upon the ground, a midnight black rose has been left here.
You see a single exit leading down.

You suddenly scoop up a bright red poppy.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Oh, oops."

You drop a palm sigil.
You drop a bright red poppy.

You have emoted: Gurashi carefully sets the flower back where it was resting, still grimacing.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks up again, studies the room... approaches the bedside and looking for his own spot to sit. He finds an unused cushion, awkwardly sinking to sit upon it on the floor while looking at the sleeping tae'dae. Very quietly, lute to his chest, he whispers, "Hello, Friend Liar. It's me - Gurashi."

You have emoted: Gurashi rests his head against the pegboard of his lute, hands on the strings but playing nothing. "Wanted to come tell you about my adventures, because have had many since we last spoke."

The melodious voice of Tridemon resonates in your mind, "So... why do you think the Liar is in such a very large, fancy house? Doesn't really suit them."

It is now the 22nd of Dvarsh, 552 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 21 days until the New Moon

Shutting his eyes, you whisper, "So, let's see..."

Faintly buzzing, you say to the Liar, "Things have not been... the -best-, but they have also not been the worst."

You have emoted: Gurashi finally plucks a string, and then another, soft and quiet and dreamlike. "It is hard to know where to start. Maybe - the good?" He looks up hopefully. "Most recently, uhm, the Glomdoring promoted me to be their Cultural Minister persons... so, I can throw MANY parties, and invite all of my friends and allies - that means you too, of course. And the Shofets, if They would come."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "**You don't hear any sort of response right away. But, then, after a heavy silence - music...?**."

Still playing, head canted to the side, you say to the Liar, "Am a little intimidated... but hope can help make many peoples happy with this position... ah - speaking of happy peoples... will never guess who visited."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks up towards the Liar hopefully, as if expecting to hear a response. When none is given, he looks down at the strings as he plays. "So, a few months ago, I got kind of upset and wrote a not very nice letter to the Lady of Serenity. Really, it was unkind of me and should not have sent it, but -did-, and so one of Hers came and visited the Glomdoring..." He holds up his free smaller right hand for dramatic effect. "But wait! Promise is happy story."

You have emoted: Gurashi drops his hand again, the music now a little more exciting to go along with the story. "It was a fox, yes - like a ghost, she was. Was in the trees, and laughing at my feets, and even though was with Xenthos and Mixter Esei, they did not see her."

Esei blinks.

Esei blinks incredulously at you.

Esei gives you the once-over, eyeing you suspiciously.

Esei inclines their head politely to those around them.

You have emoted: Gurashi doesn't even register Esei's entrance, eyes closed as he plays his lute, still speaking. "So went and talked to her, and you know what she told me?" He pauses, "She gave advice to go visit Miss Duet."

Leaning forward, whispering, you say to the Liar, "So did."

Esei tells you, "I hope I was not intruding upon anything." <--I'm grounded! I missed this. Sorry Esei.

You have emoted: Gurashi leans back with his eyes open, looking towards the ceiling. "I did, and when I went, she and Mister Binky and Miss Miaei were all there. And Mister Binky," he looks towards the Liar, smiling softly, "was really hoping were with me."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "**The music stops for a minute ... then begin again, softer still, soothing**."

Sheepishly, still playing, you say to the Liar, "I told him that next time you were waking up, that we would bake together and go visit."

Hopefully, you say to the Liar, "And it's O-K to visit them now... the Serenwildes removed my enemy status! Just so that can visit. Can believe that? Was so nice of them."

You have emoted: Gurashi shakes his head, looking down at his instrument as he plays, the notes softer, melancholic. "Still have to have an escort... but, oh, more good news - Miss Duet? You know, the elfen with the tattoos and the pretty eyes? She wants me to see her again! Was -so- happy. And she seems happy when we are hanging out, so, want to visit more, and if am going to do that want to take YOU with me. Of course."

You have emoted: Gurashi smiles softly at the Liar. "It will be a lot of fun. Promise."

There is no response in the oppressive silence beyond the brushing of their loose clothing against the cushions they float just over, and the melancholic notes you pluck hang in the air - souring the promise even as you attempt to smile it into being.

(The Shadow Kindred): You say, "UGH."
(The Shadow Kindred): You say, "UGH *stabbed in HEART*."
(The Shadow Kindred): Esei (from the Prime Material Plane) says, "Are u ok."
(The Shadow Kindred): You say, "NO sobbing."
**shares emote**
(The Shadow Kindred): Esei (from the Prime Material Plane) says, "Gah."
(The Shadow Kindred): Caohite (from the Prime Material Plane) says, "Oh NO."
(The Shadow Kindred): You say, "UGH."
(The Shadow Kindred): Caohite (from the Prime Material Plane) says, "Mysrai why."
(The Shadow Kindred): Esei (from the Prime Material Plane) says, "CRIES."

You have emoted: Gurashi's mandibles click softly.

You have emoted: Gurashi's smile lightens just barely, and he looks down again at his lute, taking a deep breath.

There is a heavy scent of citrus, and the gentle, almost imperceptible, sound of silk against stone coming from the windows near the stairs.

You have emoted: Gurashi continues to play, head tilting in the direction of the sound, looking towards the landing without a word.

The melodious voice of Tridemon resonates in your mind, "... is it working?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "**The music dies all at once, one last lingering minor key hanging heavy**."

A sneaking orange thief sits on the sill of an open window, watching you and the sleeping Liar closely. His leg swings idly back and forth as he stares without saying a word.

Plumes of resinous smoke swirl through the air in spiraling tongues of coppery light and shadow as Tsakali enters from the down.

You have emoted: Gurashi straightens his head, offering a sad smile towards the thief in the windowsill.

Tsakali pats the Liar in a friendly manner.
There is nothing but silence to greet you as the Liar continues to float just off the ground, face captured in fitful sleep.

Looking downtrodden, Tsakali sadly shakes their head at a sneaking orange thief.

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says to a sneaking orange thief, "Selling invitations to see the Liar sleep, are you?"

You have emoted: Gurashi abruptly stops his playing, frowning at Tsakali.

Quietly, you say to Tsakali, "Came by self."

With a coy smile a sneaking orange thief dips his head in recognition to you before standing up on the open windowsill and looking at Tsakali. "Door's been opened, I'm busy dodging the Shofet. Youse best be making good on your end of that bargain, Beloved." With a quick wink, they fall backwards with arms outstretched, the scent of oranges vanishing with their absence.

You blink.

Faintly buzzing, you whisper, "Oh, he's..."

You think to yourself: The one from the letters...

Tsakali nods their head at you, jerking a thumb towards the departing orange thief. "An entrepreneur, that one is."

You have emoted: Gurashi carefully pushes himself up to his feet, approaching the window to stand beside Tsakali, frowning. "Do have a name?"

Looking outside and trying to spot the thief among the chaos of the docks, you say, "He is very kind."

As you steal a glance out of the window, you catch the briefest glimpse of the thief's robes as he runs vertically up the wall of the Liar's villa before vaulting over its top into the streets beyond.

Tsakali shakes their head, peering out the window into the Shifting City. "No, though I haven't thought to ask them. They've guided us to find the Liar with..well, some cost attached to it." they explain, sighing as they turn back to the Liar's slumbering form.

LOOK TSAKALI
One might think the person before you to be a loboshigaru upon first glance. Pointed, tufted ears stand atop a fox-like head, all covered in a glorious pelt of flaxen fur peppered with the occasional spot of brown or black. Resembling a golden jackal, they are a bouncing furrikin unstable demigod. Soft, brown eyes ponder the world before them inquisitively, with a twitching black nose almost constantly scenting at the air. They stand bare-chested and free, apparently unafraid of judgement at their lack of modesty. A chaos butterfly is resting on their shoulder. A scarlet hieroglyph rests in the centre of their forehead, flickering with occasional tongues of lightning to show the truefavour of Mysrai, the Shofet of Abyssal Scales.
Atop their head, two brilliantly alabaster horns thrust straight upwards, curving only slightly at the tips. So smooth are their exteriors that they resemble marble more than bone, their bright white complexions marred only by incredibly faint veins of silver and gold.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks down at the loboshigaru curiously, canting his head again. "...they were the ones who helped you find Friend Liar?"

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

Tsakali stares at the sight outside the window before shaking their head in disbelief. Turning back to you, they respond. "Likely so. They offered to tell us where the Liar was at, and then to take us here, and then to open the door to their room. Each with a cost of sorts."

You have emoted: Gurashi glances back towards the Liar. "Then..." He looks back to Tsakali, mandibles clicking. "They are friends of Friend Liar too!"

Tsakali creases their brow in a frown.

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "Friend is a strong word. They are friendly, I guess."

Faintly buzzing, you ask Tsakali, "But they have guided you to Friend Liar each step... and that one just now - why would come if did not care?"

Faintly buzzing, you ask Tsakali, "What door is opened? Is a Beloved thing...?"

You have emoted: Gurashi's shoulders slouch a bit helplessly.

Coughing into their hand as if stifling a laugh, Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "They do it to make a profit, dear Gurashi. They want something, and have something to barter. That's it."

The melodious voice of Tridemon resonates in your mind, "... Are you all right?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "...... **The silence is so great you're not sure you've been heard, but then, very soft** Am O-K."

The melodious voice of Tridemon resonates in your mind, "Do you want me to come pick you up?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "**Quieter still* Is O-K. Will be leaving soon."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "**A little clearer** Still want to see your glasses."

You blink.

Tsakali leans down, tapping at the trapdoor set into the floor. "This door here was locked by the Shofet when we first arrived. We had to bribe the orange thief to pick the lock to allow us entry."

You think to yourself: But... why bother at all?

You have emoted: Gurashi sniffs softly, tightening his grip on his lute as he listens. "Am understanding," He whispers.

"The Shofet was not entirely pleased that we gained entry, but They understand we only wish to make sure the Liar is well." Tsakali whispers, leaning close and pressing their lips to the Liar's brow.

You have emoted: Gurashi nods quietly, offering an apologetic smile. "Am sorry - did not mean to ... barge in."

Tsakali shakes their head.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "But miss them an awful lot so wanted to say hello."

The Liar trembles with obvious fear and apprehension before they turn over in their sleep.
Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi smiles and says, "You mean well, and you're welcome here. The Liar sleeps, and is unlikely to awake any time soon. Your music may soothe them, in fact."

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

You have emoted: Gurashi watches the Liar's reaction with a pained expression, then nods. "...O-K." He looks aside. "Many thank yous Friend Tsakali."

Tsakali closes their eyes, concentrating on something unseen for a moment. "They dream of their past. Past pains, past trials, past lives. Worry not for them, for now."

Tsakali regards you somberly for a moment before brightening. "What of yourself, Friend Gurashi? How are your dreams?"

Weakly, still watching the Liar, you say to Tsakali, "I do not dream."

Quiet, you say to Tsakali, "Did try."

Tsakali frowns at you.

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "Not at all?"

Shaking his head, you ask, "None ... that is bad...?"

You have emoted: Gurashi looks at Tsakali nervously, bunching his shoulders at the thought.

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi looks thoughtful and says, "It is odd, I suppose."

Tsakali shakes their head.

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "Nothing to worry about. What of your hopes? Plans? Desires?"

Faintly buzzing, you ask Tsakali, "Oh - me?"

The corners of Tsakali's mouth turn up as they grin mischeviously.

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "Yes, you."

Faintly buzzing, you ask Tsakali, "Uh - would like to .. make as many people happy as can in time here??"

You chitter at Tsakali with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Tsakali, "Would like to feed everyone at least once."

Earnestly, you say to Tsakali, "Everyone. If can get Divines, bonus."

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi smiles and says, "Why?"

You blink.

Faintly buzzing, you ask Tsakali, "What do mean?"

Faintly buzzing, you say to Tsakali, "O-K if food makes them happy then want to do that - if persons does not want to eat it does not have to."

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "What makes that worth your time? Why do you wish to do this thing?"

You narrow your eyes, peering about suspiciously.

You blink.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Tsakali, ".... oh .... er..."

You have emoted: Gurashi trails off, looking more and more confused. "Uhm... guess ... back to other thing, in hopes that would make someone happy?" He chitters nervously. "I mean, why else are here? To just grump at each others until die? No, let us feed and help grow, yes?"

Tsakali smiles softly.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Tsakali, "Friend Liar is part of that too - want to make sure they get to try lots of foods while are here."

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "You're a good person, Gurashi."

You blink.

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says to you, "Want to come kill a thing, or will you stay here?"

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Am ... leaving."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "In a minute."

You nod your head at Tsakali.

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says to you, "The next time someone asks you why you want to do something, remember that a simple "because I want to" is more than enough."

A swirling gateway of brilliant light pierces the air before Tsakali, boring a hole through the very fabric of the planes. Tsakali ascends confidently through the rotating gate, which shimmers and snaps shut behind them. <-- went to kill the beast of a thousand backs. I mean...

You blink.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks down at his lute again.

You have emoted: Gurashi turns back towards the the Liar, taking a few cautious steps forward and reaching out to rest his hand upon the tae'dae's paw.

The Liar shifts in their sleep at your touch, and a pleasant honey scent overtakes your nostrils as the world swims around you, a familiar, friendly mind that is not your own brushing against your thoughts.

You think to yourself: Ah...

You look down at yourself, and feel a smile come to your lips as you watch yourself explain the process of baking, a happy sense of serene zen on your mind as you listen carefully to the instructions. You are safe here. Your good friends, Tsakali and Gurashi, are nearby.

You have emoted: Gurashi's smile wanes, then grows, mandibles clicking shut as he stares, unfocused, lost in this thought.

You are then sitting on the ground, watching the contest of songs as the Shofet huddles within your fur and lets you wrap your arms around Them. Your friend Gurashi is on stage, and your other friend Lief will be singing soon! Friend Tsakali is nearby, happy with the celebration, and soon the Glomdoring's Shofets will be here.

And then you are lost - floating on your back in a sea of darkness that stretches as far as the eye can see.

You think to yourself: Oh ....

The thrumming of notes from a lute catch your attention, spilling pink tones across the sea of darkness like splashes of paint being flung over a canvas, quickly fading back into darkness as the music leaves.

The presence fades with the scent of honey, but not before a few final words are whispered into your ear, as though from a great distance:.

"Hello, Friend Liar. It's me - Gurashi."

You have emoted: Gurashi narrows his eyes, one hand still clutching the Liar's as they sleep.

You stare intensely at the Liar, looking moments from tears though your eyes remain dry.

There is nothing but silence to greet you as the Liar continues to float just off the ground, face captured in fitful sleep.

Voice cracking, trying to keep up, you sing, "It is me..."

Plumes of resinous smoke swirl through the air in spiraling tongues of coppery light and shadow as Tsakali enters from the down.

Tsakali casts a fleeting glance at the Liar before settling to the ground in a cross-legged position, inhaling deeply. As they brings their hands up to rest open-palmed at either side, they exhales, all tension leaving their body.
There is nothing but silence to greet you as the Liar continues to float just off the ground, face captured in fitful sleep.

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says to you, "Still here, I see?"

The Liar's paw remains limp in your hands, your eyes focused on their chest rising and falling in slumber. If...if only Tsakali had seen what you had just seen. Maybe they would have more hope?

You have emoted: Gurashi does not answer, staring, lost, at the Liar as they sleep.

It is now the 23rd of Dvarsh, 552 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 20 days until the New Moon

Faintly buzzing, you say to Tsakali, "They ... were dreaming..."

Tsakali tilts their head and listens intently to you.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Tsakali, "They were dreaming... it was the fun times we had... oh... and the darkness..."

You have emoted: Gurashi reluctantly releases the Liar's paw, rising and turning to Tsakali. "There was... this darkness... in their dream, but..." He gestures, as if painting the air.

Faintly buzzing, you exclaim, "The music was lighting up the dark all pink!"

Faintly buzzing, you exclaim, "And, and it was me! Speaking!"

The corners of Tsakali's mouth turn up as they grin mischeviously.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Tsakali, "It was me saying hello."

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi smiles and says, "Perhaps your voice penetrated their dreams. Maybe you can sing for them, call them back from their sleep."

Tsakali reaches out to tenderly cup the Liar's cheek in their hand.
There is nothing but silence to greet you as the Liar continues to float just off the ground, face captured in fitful sleep.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "**Sudden and distracted and hopeful and confused all at once** Am so sorry Tridemon am having a big brain idea have one more thing to try."

The melodious voice of Tridemon resonates in your mind, "Are you sure you don't want me to come get you."

You have emoted: Gurashi's eyes widen hopefully.

You have emoted: Gurashi chitters nervously, once more raising his lute as if preparing to play. "D-do you think that was it?"

Tsakali hums something soothing under their breath, urging you on with one extended paw.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Do think should tell more stories?? No - they were memories... the first ones..."

Tsakali nods their head at you.

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi whispers to you, "Sing of cooking cookies, Gurashi-friend. Sing of safety, and warmth, and family."

You have emoted: Gurashi finds a pillow near to but not touching the Liar, reaching out to once more take the tae'dae's hand as he begins to play his lute, the melody bright and hopeful.

Esei tells you, "Are you well, my friend? You have not answered me."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "**You are left without verbal affirmation, but music returns, this time brighter than before**."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Master Esei of the Ascending Dusk, "**No response -- only, music**."

Tsakali urges you onwards.

Tsakali's eyes briefly swim as they are overtaken with the colour of honey, slowly fading and returning them to their normal hue. <-- they got same vision Gurashi did

Shadows pour out from the down, heralding Dusan.

You have emoted: Gurashi continues to play, suddenly looking at Tsakali. "Am sorry - am not so good at lyrics on the spot!" He laughs. "Was just telling them stories... about things that have happened while they ... ah..."

You stare at Tsakali, eyes wide.

You have emoted: Gurashi's playing continues, hand still rested upon the Liar's. "Friend Tsakali...?"

Esei's eyes skips over Tsakali, looking directly at you, lips twisted into a frown.

Tsakali sighs, closing their eyes firmly. Slowly, softly, their voice comes forth as a low contralto. "Home and friends abound, Friend Liar. You are safe, and loved, and free from all who would hurt you." they sing, somewhat out of tune and lacking all sense of rhyme.

You have emoted: Gurashi glances briefly towards Esei, still playing as he clutches the Liar's much larger paw in his hand.

There is a heavy scent of citrus, and the gentle, almost imperceptible, sound of silk against stone coming from the windows near the stairs. <-- HE'S BACK

Esei exhales slowly, allowing a long fluid breath to creep from their lungs.

You stare at Tsakali, eyes wide.

Esei casts you a glance, ears twitching.

"The scent of baking cookies, friends waiting to taste your newest recipe, Friend Liar!" Tsakali sings, low and soft. "Glasses of milk and honey, soft couches to sink into, friends telling jokes.."

You have emoted: Gurashi's eyes drift drift back to Tsakali, playing along as the loboshigaru sings.

Suddenly, playing upward notes as he cuts in, you sing, "...because are one in a melon~."

Singing along with Gurashi, Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "One in a melon!"

A sneaking orange thief watches from the sill of the open window, a faint smile on his face as he drags his leg along the wall to catch the beat of the impromptu song with the silk of his clothing.

Esei tilts their head curiously at a sneaking orange thief.

You eyes narrow slightly as you grin, mandibles clicking.

(Trasto): You say, "I love you orange thief!!!"

Tsakali fixes the thief with a warning glare as they continue to sing. "Bestest friends, Gurashi and Tsakali, and the Shofet! We all miss you, and can't wait to hug you again! You are safe, and loved!"

You have emoted: Gurashi resumes his upbeat tune, unable to help but grin. He looks towards the window and perks up, then makes a gestures as if encouraging them to join in.

A sneaking orange thief's eyes can briefly be seen twinkling beneath his hood, one closing in a quick wink at Tsakali as he watches.

The scent of citrus fills the air, drawing your nose on a delightful journey.

Perhaps it is just your imagination, but in the midst of the song and the decided display of camaraderie and friendship, could that also be...honey?

The pointed tips of Esei's ears twitch to some errant sound.

Esei narrows their eyes to thin slits.

"Buzz buzz sings the bee, making the honey for you and me! Honeycombs, honeycombs, making cakes! Snacks like cookies, and rolls to bake!" Tsakali sings, almost breaking up with laughter as they finally start enjoying their singing.

Slipping it into one of the kephera's smaller hands, Esei gives a moonstone vial to you.
You have emoted: Gurashi takes a deep breath, then begins to join in with Tsakali on the merry singing. "Ohhh-pen your eyes, be surprised, be hungry - when you wake there'll be mlik and honey~".

You click your mandibles together energetically, chittering to yourself.

You think to yourself: Friend Liar...

Despite your best efforts, there are no more visions that rise to the surface, and the Liar's mind remains muted and distant beneath your touch as it draws further and further away in soporific isolation.

A sneaking orange thief offers a soft sigh and turns his head away from the display, staring out over the Shifting City as his leg finally stills in its swinging.

You have emoted: Gurashi continues to play, though the notes get softer and softer as he does so, until eventually he concedes to silence. He looks up at Tsakali sadly.

Voice cracking, you ask a sneaking orange thief, "You're their friend right?"

Not looking back into the room, a sneaking orange thief says, "Could have been. But couldn't figure out what it was worth to me."

The ghost of a smile passes fleetingly across Esei's lips.

With a scowl, you say to a sneaking orange thief, "Friendship is priceless!"

Tsakali sighs a bit, singing lower. "Friend Liar, bestest friend of Llani and Gurashi and Tsakali, dream of brighter things! Honeycakes, and chocolate cookies, and the Beloved!"

You have emoted: Gurashi's mandibles click as he glances back towards Tsakali again, then looks down.

As a dry, bitter laugh escapes his throat, a sneaking orange thief says, "Youse can say that pretty easily. Some of us can't."

Faintly buzzing, you ask a sneaking orange thief, "Why can't you have friends?? Why does have to be a price for all of the things?"

Genuinely confused, you say to a sneaking orange thief, "Somethings are worth more than monies."

You point accusingly at the Liar.
There is nothing but silence to greet you as the Liar continues to float just off the ground, face captured in fitful sleep.

Tsakali heaves a dry cough, unused to singing at length. Taking a sip of water, they fix the orange thief with another glare. "Are you here to try to help, or are you here to spectate and poke fun?"

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

As he reaches up to pull his hood lower over his face, a sneaking orange thief says, "Nothing in the world is free. Youse got more response than five of us trying at once. So I guess I should tell youse guys good job."

Voice soft, Master Esei of the Ascending Dusk says to you, "As we spoke earlier, some find making friends harder than others."

With another bitter laugh, a sneaking orange thief says, "Ain't that the truth?"

You have emoted: Gurashi looks between those that speak in dissuasion of the idea, lowering his gaze.

You think to yourself: It does not have to be complicated.

Esei smiles wryly at a sneaking orange thief.

Faintly buzzing, you ask a sneaking orange thief, "But if you could, would you?"

You stare at a sneaking orange thief, eyes wide.

Tsakali turns away, leaning in and pressing their lips against the Liar's forehead. "Hey, we love you. Come back to us soon, ok?" Tsakali murmurs, finally rising to their feet.

A sneaking orange thief climbs up to stand on the sill again, glancing back in so that their face is cast in the morning light and their eyes cannot be seen. "Youse still owe me, Beloved. Don't think I'll forgive youse if I don't get what I paid for." His legs tense as he bends down, and for a moment his scales are visible as a wide, orange eye stares at you. "...would've. Could've. Should've. Too late to worry about it now, though."

Tsakali scowls miserably at a sneaking orange thief.

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says to a sneaking orange thief, "Don't get it twisted, Ashira made that promise. I know better until I see the goods."

Faintly buzzing, you say to a sneaking orange thief, "Mister Thief..."

Esei sways back and forth.

A sneaking orange thief stands and tugs his hood down again. "Youse made the promise to come here. That means it's your job to wake them up." He points at Tsakali and there is a hint of menace in his voice as he says, "Or else." Then, as though it were as simple as walking away, he falls backwards into the air.

You blink.

Esei gives a pained sigh.

You think to yourself: Nothing for free...

You have emoted: Gurashi looks out the window again, chittering softly.

This time, you catch sight of the thief staring backward at you from atop the far wall. The moment he sees you, he leaps down and into the distant city, lost in a flash.

Master Esei of the Ascending Dusk whispers, "Would anyone mind me giving my thoughts on the matter, or should I keep them to myself for now?"

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: Gurashi points at the floor. "Bizi. Stay."

Bizirik, the leothin sits, blinking.

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

You have emoted: Gurashi holds up a hand. "Moment."

**steps downstairs to CHANGE into PEOPLE disguise**

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. Tattooed on his hands is an illustration of a bumblebee constellation.
He is wearing:
a pair of traveller's boots
the Fingerblade of dha'Wyrden-cree.
You slip into a crisp, long-sleeved white shirt.

You have emoted: Gurashi stomps in barefoot at a resounding 5'8'', hands on his hips and he stares intently across the room at the Liar.

Tsakali shrugs helplessly.

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "I don't know what else to do."

Esei blinks.

Esei stares implacably at you.

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "There's a healing mound on Celestia we can try, but I don't even know if it will work."

Master Esei of the Ascending Dusk says, "I would suggest not ruminating in this failure, at the very least."

Esei ponders the situation.

Tsakali buries their face in their hands, exhaling.

Voice bright and clear, you exclaim, "It wasn't a failure!"

Master Esei of the Ascending Dusk says to Tsakali, "Are they able to be moved."

Esei smiles wryly at you.

You have emoted: With all the determination he can store Gurashi stomps across the room towards the mountain of pillows and the Liar's sleeping form.

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says to Esei, "I don't know. We haven't tried."
Using their tongue and the roof of their mouth, Esei makes a quiet clicking noise.

Esei ponders the situation.

Esei ponders the Liar thoughtfully, looking him up and down.
There is nothing but silence to greet you as the Liar continues to float just off the ground, face captured in fitful sleep.

Clambering over the pillows until he reaches even with the Liar's shoulders, you exclaim, "Listen! This was a big success! Because now we know Friend Liar can hear us!"

Deep in thought, Esei leans their cheek on their hand.

Master Esei of the Ascending Dusk asks, "A... a healing mound, you said?"

Master Esei of the Ascending Dusk asks, "Like that the Hamadhi used, or something else?"

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "Yes, a healing mound of the Hamadhi."

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "There is a mound below the Pool of Stars, upon Celestia."

Master Esei of the Ascending Dusk asks, "Would... we even be able to use it?"

Esei looks at their hands. "I am a healer, myself, but..."

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "I don't know. Auriella is of Weiwae's order, I am hopeful she knows how they work."

Master Esei of the Ascending Dusk whispers, "Not a Healer."

You have emoted: Gurashi ignores Tsakali and Esei as they speak, planting his hands on his knees. "Guess what, Friend Liar? You are my very first ever one of these." He hesitates. "Are cooties real?" He considers, before leaning down and planting an upside-down kiss upon the Liar's forehead.

Tsakali gives a little laugh, nodding their head.

Teasingly, Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "Liar has Gurashi cooties! They're like cookies with legs!"

There is nothing but silence to greet you as the Liar continues to float just off the ground, face captured in fitful sleep.

You have emoted: Gurashi pulls back. "I got a hat that makes me look like a real people. A human people. So can return all of the forehead kisses that have gotten." His smile falters. "Think owe a lot."

Esei's dark eyes glitter faintly as they smile at the antics.

The corners of Tsakali's mouth turn up as they grin mischeviously.

You have emoted: Gurashi lightly pets the soft fur upon the Liar's head adoringly, smiling down at the tae'dae.

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "Gurashi is already a real people, and is tall enough to give all the forehead kisses."

With a gasp, you exclaim to Tsakali, "Do not have a real mouth!"

Master Esei of the Ascending Dusk whispers, "I am taller than Gurashi when he is like this..."

Esei ponders you thoughtfully, looking you up and down.

Lips curling up at the corners, Esei's mouth twists into a decidedly feral grin.

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says to the Liar, "Hey, remember those gloves I made you, so you can cook and not burn your paws? We need to make some brownies sometime, so don't let them go to waste."

Tsakali frowns at you.

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says to you, "You have a fake mouth?"

Voice bright and clear, you say to Tsakali, "Look! Look," His eyes widen as he pulls back on the corners of his mouth to show off his teeth. "Haff teef!""

Still pulling the corners of his mouth, you say, "Ahh hhake 'oo."

Esei ponders you thoughtfully, looking you up and down.

Esei leans close to you and gently lays a kiss upon your forehead.

Esei nods their head sagely.

You have emoted: Gurashi gasps suddenly, grabbing the nearest unoccupied pillow and hurling it in Esei's direction. "Ahh, no!"

Tsakali stares at you in a mixture of confusion and disbelief before breaking out in laughter.

Esei smirks.

Master Esei of the Ascending Dusk says to Tsakali, "I will... see if I can find this mound."

Esei absentmindedly caresses a phantasmal shroud of shadows before heading away.
Skeletal white blossoms flower along the flesh of Esei, riding Dusan, the coruscant, as their body splits apart into a blizzard of blackthorn petals that leave to the down.
Trailing stars and smoke, Dusan trails off to the down.

You have emoted: Gurashi breathes real big and gives Esei a look before clambering down off the pillow pile and to his feet.

Brushing himself off, you say to Tsakali, "It was worth a try."

Tsakali hugs the Liar compassionately.
There is nothing but silence to greet you as the Liar continues to float just off the ground, face captured in fitful sleep.

Steward Tsakali Mes'ard, Pilgrim of Bodhi says to you, "We'll wake them up somehow, I just know it."

Voice bright and clear, you say to Tsakali, "Many thank yous for all of hospitality."

You nod your head emphatically.

Voice bright and clear, you say to the Liar, "Listen! We love you! So! Much!"

Voice bright and clear, you say to the Liar, "From tips of antennae to bottoms of feets and beyond yes."

You nod your head emphatically.

You have emoted: Gurashi turns to Tsakali, suddenly throwing his arms around them in a quick hug.

You beam broadly at Tsakali.

<-- Tsakali's vision from https://ada-young.com/pastebin/1x-Zd9r6

Tsakali shudders violently.

Tsakali leans close to the Liar and gently lays a kiss upon his forehead.
There is nothing but silence to greet you as the Liar continues to float just off the ground, face captured in fitful sleep.

You hope beyond hope that they heard you. Like before. It would be worth it if they knew just how much you loved them.

**like 2 minutes later while I was busy elsewhere**

Wait a minute. Where is Bizi?