A Mending

[Familiar sparse lines greet you in their meticulous, thin array.]

Enduring Avaris of the Star City,

Congratulations on your promotion. It is pleasing to see you walking in
the Avowing of the Order once more.

Selfish request. Please do not attempt such a drastic measure to prove
yourself to our Lady again.

Ignoring you for the Empyreal was a strain on my Devotion. Far better to
serve the Lady together, than in Devotions apart. Yes?

Your friend in Fortitude,
Nabithia
---------
((I, like a fool, forgot to note down what Avaris sent in response. Basically thanking her, he's glad to be back, apologised for making it difficult for her, but that he couldn't promise to not take such drastic measures in the future - But he would try to do so in a way that would make it less hard on her.))


You read what is written on a mist-spun letter clasped by a star lotus:
[The familiar thin, efficient sprawl that marks the flourish of
Nabithia's calligraphy greets you on the mist-spun page.]

Enduring Avaris of the Star City,

Appreciate your honesty and candor. Attempts to lessen strain are
gratifying, nonetheless.

Perhaps remedy can be made in the form of a pleasing activity. What is
an enjoyable pasttime in the Star City? We could speak of what has
transpired in your absence from the Avowing.

I hold much curiosity as to your trial, should you wish to speak of it.
And to its conclusion. Nosy, admittedly. Need not answer, if you do not
wish.

Company, however, would be kind after such absence.

Your friend,
Nabithia
--------


[Unornamented and lacking in flair, Avaris' handwriting is nonetheless elegant, if a touch severe, an impression enhanced by the stark formality of the page itself.]

Immaculate Nabithia,

I ever strive to be honest. This period of near duplicity was most uncomfortable for me. I am ill suited to it. (Also, you do not need to address me as such every time. Simply Avaris will do, if you wish.)

I would be most happy to spend time with you in some fashion. I confess that I am not overly familiar with pleasing activities. There are plays, of course, but they are hardly conducive to talking. There is the park, with the duck pond - And I have been informed that there is a playground, though I do not know where. A meal is a possibility, or a simple walk. What might you find pleasing, Nabithia?

I will speak of it with you, though I do not think that I shall with others. I ask that you keep it to yourself, if you are able. It will not be a heartening tale, I think.

It would. I hope that the others did not neglect you in my absence.

Your friend,
Avaris
------


The Starlit Gardens.
The air is filled with motes of light emanating from a healing shrine of Terentia nearby. This
location is flooded with shallow, crystal clear water. Great, vibrant plants grow about this section
of the terrace, forming emerald walls of greenery, shielding it from the other private gardens of
the Supernal Terrace. From the wooden terrace above hangs a variety of vines, many twining
delicately about glass globes of celestial light. The marble floor has had great swathes cut out and
filled with a variety of materials - many of the holes filled with glistening golden sand, expertly
raked to form a variety of patterns, some mimicking the push and pull of the ocean's tides while
others draw out great symbols of the Light. Those not filled with sand find themselves home to
different kinds of stones and minerals, all of them smoothed down by the rivers of the Basin of
Life, none possessing a sharp edge. All of the sections twist and pull about one another, gradually
circling to their centre, where a circular section of white stones glistens in the light. A smooth
white chest rests here, etched with the symbol of Elohora. There are 12 seekers lying prostrate
here, offering up prayers for the blessings of the Light. Sculpted of pearl, the iridescent form of
the Lady of the Eternal Light rises from pale, river-smoothed stones.
You see a single exit leading south.

Princess Nabithia tells you, "I have received your letter, Enduring Avaris." There is a pause.
"Avaris. This will take getting used to."

You tell Princess Nabithia, "A good morning to you, Immaculate. You do not have to, if it makes you uncomfortable. Whatever puts you at your ease."

Princess Nabithia tells you, "It is no matter, either way. Is now a good time to speak?"

You tell Princess Nabithia, "I believe it is. The city is very quiet, so I do not think we shall be disturbed."

With a regal incline of her antennae and a flutter of diaphanous silks, Princess Nabithia strides in
from the south.

A slender, statuesque creature who carries herself with utmost elegance and refinement, she is a
compound-eyed kephera princess draped in diaphanous, sidereal silks. The slim contours of her
porcelain figure are encased in an alabastrine carapace, with ornamental flourishes of chitin upon
her delicate shoulders and long limbs. Pearlescent in quality, her ivory carapace is touched in
subtle casts of champagne, and flows into tints of rosy quartz and blush pink about its edges,
leaving her similar in appearance to an orchid bloom. Scythe-like in execution, her long limbs lend
her a further semblance of lissome height. From a beautiful, if alien, countenance, her compound
eyes reflect her surroundings in tinctures of aubergine and merlot, while slender, delicate antennae
curve back from her temples, a crown fit for any queen of the hives.
Princess Nabithia has an air of extreme strength.

With a bow of her crowned head, speaking in a pleasant array of buzzes, Princess Nabithia says,
"Enduring Avaris."

Her antennae twitching, Princess Nabithia says, "I have never seen the Star City so quiet."

Turning from examining the greenery off to one side, Avaris inclines his head
towards Princess Nabithia in turn, his manner courteous, but warm. "Immaculate Nabithia. Mm. It is
unusual, is it not? Do you prefer it as such?"

Princess Nabithia settles to the ground in a cross-legged position, inhaling deeply. As she brings
her hands up to rest open-palmed at either side, she exhales, all tension leaving her body.

Glancing about the greenery of the gardens with a pensive clicking, Princess Nabithia says, "It is
different. Would not like it always, I think. But sometimes, can be pleasant."

Princess Nabithia says, "And yourself? Is solitude preferred?"

Uttering a low, vibrating sound of agreement, Avaris steps closer to where Princess
Nabithia sits, and lowers himself into a similar position, a respectful distance away. Placing his
hands atop his knees, he studies Princess Nabithia mildly, lifting a single shoulder in response. "I
prefer to have the option for it. I enjoy the company of a very small few individuals, but I dislike
crowds. Too much to keep watch for, too many potential threats. It is taxing."

"Threats?" Princess Nabithia echoes, her antennae perking up. "Are you often in such mixed company
in the Star City?"

A soft, amused sound shivers forth from Avaris as he turns one of his hands aside
in a so-so gesture. "It is more that I perceive the world in degrees of potential danger, I think.
Anyone can be a threat, in the right circumstances. It is my du-...My inclination to assess such,
and act accordingly."

Peering at you as the words are stumbled and correct, Princess Nabithia says merely, "I see. That is
an exhausting mindset to possess, Enduring Avaris. You must be most tired all the time."

A placid motion of the upraised fingers, mild as Avaris replies, "I do not find it
particularly so. It is simply how I am. Do you find it tiring to be..." He pauses, as a glitter of
amusement sparkles to life in his eyes, his tone a shade playful, "Nosy?"

Graciously, Princess Nabithia says, "No. It is most energizing."

Avaris lifts his hand to Princess Nabithia as he dips his head. "Just so. It is the
same. Would you find it tiring to be nosy in a vast crowd, all gossiping about salacious matters,
all at once?"

With a soft, pleasant hum, Princess Nabithia continues, "It would depend on the crowd, and the
gossip involved. Not all crowds are the same, no?"

Bobbing his chin in easy agreement, Avaris lowers his hand back to his knee. "None
are, indeed." A pause, in which he studies Princess Nabithia, antennae flicking languidly. "How have
you been, in my absence?"

There is a faint flicker of discomfort at the question as Princess Nabithia ponders it, her antennae
twitching. "I have been glad to see recent months end," she says simply, her compound eyes
flickering towards you. "In this I presume we are like-minded."

The fluid motion of Avaris's antennae stills at the subtle discomfort, the broad
swathes of dense red curving down in a small frown. He leans forward slightly, concern brushed
across his words in bright silver. "We are. I did not think it would be so difficult for you,
Nabithia. I am sorry, if it was trying. I would have spared you that."

Folding her hands before herself primly, Princess Nabithia says in a simple buzz, "Oh? I do not know
if you would. You can be quite set on things, for the Lady."

Sitting back, Avaris regards Princess Nabithia with bemusement commingled with
faint consternation. "Well...Yes. I would do anything for Her, but." The severity of his frown
deepens as he lowers his head, puzzling through his words. "I admit that I did not think anyone
would be much bothered by my departure. I would have spoken to you before I left, if...That would
have alleviated your discomfort." A hesitation, where he watches Princess Nabithia somewhat warily.
"Would it have?"

Then Princess Nabithia hesitates, and her antennae lower as she sighs. "I am sorry. That is not
charitable of me. I am somewhat angry at you, Enduring Avaris. But it will pass. As all emotions
do." She looks at you again, a brief contrition in her eyes as she says, "Perhaps not. It might have
made things harder."

A short, small sound of uncertainty shivers in Avaris's throat as he regards
Princess Nabithia with undisguised concern. His hand shifts, a truncated motion that may have been
the beginnings of reaching out, but falls back once more. With a slow, careful manner, earnest in
its sincerity, he asks, "Can you explain why, please? And why it would have made things harder?"

Exhaling softly, Princess Nabithia says, "Mm. Would have tried to stop you, I think. And been
frustrated when I could not."

Princess Nabithia cants her head slightly, her antennae quirking as she inquiries, "It would have
failed, yes? Trying to change your course."

Avaris's head tilts in a quizzical manner as he replies, faintly puzzled, "Why
would you have tried to stop me? And...Likely, yes. Respectfully, Immaculate, if our Lady could not
dissuade me, no force in all of creation could hope to."

Her antennae writhing in quiet consternation, Princess Nabithia mutters, "Yes. You are most
stubborn." To your question, however, she pauses. "I think there is some of the Lady's spirit in me
that does not like to see others suffer, if it can be spared."

The quiet, bemused "Mm." buzzes against the plates of Avaris's visored face at this
statement, though he dips his head in a tiny gesture of agreement. "So I have been told. I am
exasperating, and frustrating, yes?" The question is wry with self-mockery, but benign enough. "Ah.
That does make sense, yes. I am sorry, Immaculate. I am fine, however. All is well."

Rubbing the edge of his thumb across his knee, Avaris ventures, "Can I...Make you
not angry with me, somehow?"

Considering the query with a quiet click of her tongue, Princess Nabithia says, "Perhaps we can talk
of something else. Something distracting. I should not linger on emotions that I am letting pass."

Antennae still bent down in a manner reminiscent of bloody horns, Avaris's response
is dubious. "I think working through them and untangling them may be healthier, but I will not
pressure you in this." Lifting his lower right hand in invitation, he inquires, politely, "What
would you wish to speak of, instead?"

Giving the matter a good deal of thought, her antennae squirming as she considers it, Princess
Nabithia ventures, "Perhaps a compromise of the topics. I had seen the star the Lady wears now." She
turns to you, wondering. "How did you come across it? And what is its significance?"

Breathing a soft, "Ah.", Avaris allows his hand to settle lightly atop the golden
curve of his armoured thigh as he considers the question. "That is not an easy question to provide
succinct answers for. Are you aware of the nature of the relationship between our Lady and the
Silent Lord?"

Princess Nabithia shakes her head slightly, her crowned antennae swaying with the motion.

Buzzing dubiously, Princess Nabithia says, "I do not much care for that word 'relationship' between
them."

Carefully folding his hands atop one another, Avaris gives a polite cough as the
markings of his plumage tinge a soft shade of pink. "Ah. I did not...Much care for it, either, or
the implications of it."

Princess Nabithia tilts her head like a child might upon listening to a bedtime story, her curiosity
plain upon her face.

"I...Believe our Lady would not mind me telling you, since you are an Immaculate.
If I know, and I am of inferior rank, then...Surely it should be permissible." Avaris suggests, with
a noticeable lack of conviction. "What do you think?"

With an upturned hand, Princess Nabithia says, "If She did not say it was meant to be secret, then
it must not be so."

Eying Princess Nabithia dubiously, Avaris delays for a moment, before relenting.
"I...Do not think that is quite right, but, I suppose." Clearing his throat, he rolls a huge
shoulder as if striving to loosen it. "They are from the same creche. He is Her Brother, though She
was not very emphatic about that particular descriptor."

Looking rapt with interest, Princess Nabithia hums, "Hmmm. It is not an entirely surprising
development. The veils and shrouds. The Night and stars." She clicks her mandibles pensively. "They
do not seem They would be close, though, no."

With distaste dripping from his words like citrus juice, Avaris replies, "It is not
surprising, perhaps, but unpleasant nonetheless. To think that such a being is related to our good
Lady." With a slight shake of his helm-like head, he affirms, "They are not. She said they fought
often when They were younger, and have not spoken in a very long while. The star was a gift to Her
from Lord Darvellan, from when He was first learning to imbue His essence into stars. I think She is
very fond of it."

"It shines beautifully upon Her," Princess Nabithia agrees in a soft buzz of sound. She pauses.
"Then, where did you find it?"

"I was given it by the One that, I suspect, originally stole it." Avaris replies
simply.

At the hint of theft and deception, Princess Nabithia widens her compound eyes, a soft, "Ah,"
leaving her lips. "That is most rude," she mutters under her breath, her irritation palpable. "I
cannot imagine what the Lady did to deserve such a thing."

A thrumming note of deep displeasure hangs in the air for a time as Avaris's wings
shiver in place, his chin lowering in a grave nod. "That is...One word for it. I cannot imagine She
did anything to deserve it - Envy and jealousy are powerful motivators, and He seems the type to
manufacture reasons for malice where none exist."

Studying you intently, her antennae lowering, Princess Nabithia states, "You met Him, did you not?
The Silent Lord."

An abrupt, short-lived laugh bursts from Avaris's throat at this. He holds his hand
up demonstratively, confiding with a peculiar sort of humour lacing his words, "Oh, yes. We held
hands and linked arms like old friends, in fact. It was the singular strangest experience in my
life, Immaculate."

Princess Nabithia peers at you unscrupulously.

Repeating, disbelieving, Princess Nabithia says, "Linked arms and held hands. With the Lady's
estranged brother."

Princess Nabithia rubs her temples, clicking softly as if struggling to process the mental image. "A
trial of Fortitude indeed, Avaris," the kephera says, shaking her head.

Avaris returns Princess Nabithia's look with one of placid equanimity. "Indeed. I
believe He thought it would unnerve me, or frighten me. Somehow I doubt that He is often given to
holding hands with strange, hostile kephera." At the mention of the trial, the spiked halo of his
left shoulder rises in a gentle motion. "That was not so very trying, in itself."

There is a brief silence as Princess Nabithia searches for the unspoken statement in your words,
humming softly. "May I ask what was trying, then?" she asks, hesitant. "You need not say so if you
do not wish to."

The general air of benign amusement drains from Avaris at the question as he grows
silent, his head lowering so that he stares at his clasped hands. Sliding the hard pads of his
fingertips along the back of his pointed knuckles, he is quiet for a considerable length of time,
his antennae twisting and contorting in a deep frown. "You know what I find interesting, Immaculate?
People - Divine included - keep threatening me with violence and death when trying to frighten me.
They do not understand me, I think." The fingers squeeze tight, his voice growing quieter. "Our Lady
does. She knows that She is...Everything to me. I begged Her to make the trial as punishing as
possible." He lapses into silence for a beat, a strange, sorrowful note resonating in his layered
voice. "So She took everything from me. For a time."

You think to yourself: The memory of that absence, the absolute emptiness of it - The cold, the dark
of where Her light had been, Her warmth.

There is a halting nature to the way that Princess Nabithia reaches to place her hand on your arm,
pausing as if uncertain if the gesture will be welcomed. "Would have been easier to merely lose a
limb for a time, yes?" she offers weakly, though in the faint attempt at humor there is a genuine
sense of concern and empathy, a striving to say something kind in the face of something so painful.

In response to Princess Nabithia's gesture, Avaris's eyes glimmer with faint motes
of light as he tries to summon up a smile for her, a gentleness to his words. "You are free to touch
me if you wish, Immaculate. I do not mind, if it is you." At the reply, he breathes a faint,
unsteady laugh, nodding slowly. "Oh, yes. Anything would have been easier, than being without Her."
Again, his voice lowering to a whisper that is sharp and burning with vehemence. "Anything."

Faintly resting her hand on your arm, tension seemingly lifting from her as she does so, Princess
Nabithia nods. "I cannot imagine the pain of the absence," she says, her words earnest. "It is
something I hope to never know."

Though he does not seek to move away from Princess Nabithia's touch, nor does
Avaris move to return one of his own, simply lowering his head in a silent gesture of gratitude for
Princess Nabithia's kindness. "It is something that you will not, if I have any say in the matter."

Her own voice a pleasant, if faintly amused hum, Princess Nabithia says, "If only I could promise
the same to you, Enduring Avaris, but something tells me you will do what you wish when you wish
it."

Faintly indignant, Avaris retorts, "I do what our Lady wishes, when She wishes it!"

Avaris pauses, and corrects himself, with a cough. "Mostly."

With an unimpressed buzz, Princess Nabithia states, "Mm-hmm."

Knowingly, Princess Nabithia says, "I see you, Avaris."

Eying Princess Nabithia sidelong, Avaris replies, lightly, "As I see you, Nabithia.
I am not the only willful member of the Order, I think."

Lifting one of her antennae in a quirked question mark, Princess Nabithia says, "Are you arguing
with the Empyreal again? A dangerous habit, as we have said before. At the very least I do not
attempt such."

Princess Nabithia hums innocently to herself.

Avaris lifts a hand as if to say something and pauses, his fingers curling down as
if deflated. "Ah. Has She...Said that we have been?"

Looking positively sneaky, Princess Nabithia says, "No, but your expression when I said this tells
me much."

The fingers squeeze together as Avaris glares at Princess Nabithia, though there is
no heat in his gaze. "You are sly."

"It would not do for an Immaculate of the Empyreal to lack wit and cunning," Princess Nabithia
demurs.

With great dignity, Avaris observes, "It is perhaps unseemly that an Immaculate of
the Empyreal would turn such sharp wit and cunning upon Her faithful."

Playful in her inquiry, Princess Nabithia says, "Or perhaps I must begin my efforts where they most
affect the Lady, that I might serve Her best."

Her compound eyes glittering with amusement, Princess Nabithia says to you, "What is the nature of
the arguing? I can already anticipate the trial was a point of conflict."

Blowing out a brief, vibrating snort of sound, Avaris waves a hand aside, stating,
"I can hardly be considered one that most affects the Lady. You would be better served turning your
glinting tongue elsewhere." He pauses, turning his face down to his hands briefly, then away again.
"Ah. Mm. I am curious as to what your conjecture is. I am sure that you have some ideas."

Using her tongue and the roof of her mouth, Princess Nabithia makes a quiet clicking noise.

Her compound eyes sparkling in delight at the game you pose, Princess Nabithia says, "Hmmm. Let us
consider a possible range of topics."

Spreading his hands in invitation, Avaris awaits with no small degree of amusement
glittering in his eyes.

With an upturned hand, Princess Nabithia says, "The matter of Lady Li-varili would be an obvious
one, for your opinion on Her has been plain for many months."

Avaris dips his head in easy agreement, holding a finger aloft, keeping count.

A tad cheekily, Princess Nabithia says, "I can presume the matter of the Empyreal's endless sea of
patience has at some point vexed and irritated, for yours is a temper that is quicker than Her own."

With a tutting click of his own, Avaris holds up another finger, though he
brandishes this one in mock-warning.

Her mandibles clicking with careful calculation, Princess Nabithia says, "Let us see, what else can
we imagine as a possible vehicle for discord within the Vanishing Isles."

The larger of Avaris's left antennae quirks at this, though he leans forward,
placing his forearm upon his thigh as he listens to Princess Nabithia expectantly, murmuring, "This
should be interesting."
A glint of mischief in her compound eyes, Princess Nabithia says to you, "Ah. Does the Lady know
that Her Brother held your hand and arm in such an affectionate manner?"

Humming to herself with an absurdly delighted rhythm, Princess Nabithia says, "I wonder at Her
opinion regarding such a thing."

Avaris's posture shifts abruptly as his arm slips upon his leg, causing him to jerk
upright with an eloquent, "Uh. That is, I." He struggles mightily for a moment, the markings of his
wings flushing bright pink. Lamely, he says, "I did not think to mention it. I do not...Think She
would mind. Much."

You think to yourself: "Maybe. I hope."

Reveling in this, Princess Nabithia says, "Are you embarrassed by your noble trial, Enduring
Avaris?"

Growing a shade defensive, Avaris straightens, protesting, "I am not embarrassed by
it! And it was not noble! And it was not an /affectionate/ manner!"

Haughtily, Avaris declares, "It was psychological warfare."

Princess Nabithia dissolves into chittering laughter, utterly delighted by the turn of conversation.

Favouring Princess Nabithia with a baleful look that is belief by the glittering
sea of light that manifests in his eyes, Avaris breathes a much put-upon sigh. "You are a cruel
creature, Immaculate, ever amused at my expense."

"Your expense is amusing, yes," Princess Nabithia agrees with a gentle hum of buzzing laughter.

Lifting his upper left hand, Avaris presses it to his breast and looks upwards, the
very picture of the suffering hero as he says, valiantly, "I suffer your barbed humour so that
others do not have to."

Princess Nabithia says, "How very gracious of you, Enduring Avaris. You are large enough to bear the
brunt of it, I think."

Conceding the point with an upturned hand, Princess Nabithia says, "However, it seems you have
hidden this terrible secret from the Lady, so I have lost our little game at last."

Shifting his arm so that he gestures expansively at himself, Avaris inclines his
head in affirmation. "I am. I pale to think of how smaller individuals might fare against you,
Immaculate." At Princess Nabithia's remark, he flicks her a withering look. "It is not /hidden/ and
nor is it a terrible secret. I genuinely do not think it would bother Her much. Why would it,
really?"

A sing-song quality to her harmony of buzzes, Princess Nabithia says, "My jabs are not so pointy for
most. Your target merely makes it easy."

Gamely, Princess Nabithia says, "If it is such a small thing, then why not tell Her of it?"

Avaris's antennae flow inwards in a pincer-like motion as he peers at Princess
Nabithia with mild suspicion. "So you pick on me in particular. I see. Have you taken it upon
yourself to be my ongoing trial of Fortitude, Immaculate?" At the question, he shrugs impassively,
waving a golden hand through the air languidly. "Why should I bother Her with small things? She is a
very great Goddess. She is too busy to be disturbed with such trivial matters."

Waving a hand dismissively, Princess Nabithia says, "Oh, you are already done with Fortitude. You
are now on the path of Wisdom. It is interesting seeing how you navigate it."

Humming, Princess Nabithia says to you, "Perhaps I will mention it in passing to Her, then, when She
next visits the Isles."

Deflating somewhat, Avaris lets out a unamused sound, lowering his great head to
rest upon the backs of his bladed knuckles. "I feel I may have come to the end of my path in the
Order, if Wisdom is to be my next obstacle." To Princess Nabithia's suggestion, he glowers at her.
"And why would you disturb Her with such nonsense, Immaculate? She will not care."

Taking on a solemn note in her buzzing cadence, Princess Nabithia says, "The Goddess cares deeply
about the affairs of those in Her Order. And there is a little bit of truth to the slightest
nonsense, Enduring Avaris."

At your deflating, however, the amusement in her voice ebbs and Princess Nabithia asks sincerely,
"Is Wisdom a difficult path for you?"

Entirely unconvinced by the sober demeanour, Avaris regards Princess Nabithia with
immense skepticism. "You just want to gossip and see me squirm. I see you." At the question, he
gives a short, disbelieving laugh. "Nabithia. You have met me. You know the answer to that as well
as I do."

With a flat, irritated hum, Princess Nabithia says, "You may believe yourself to be unwise, Enduring
Avaris, but that may only be your opinion."

Turning to frown at Princess Nabithia, Avaris looks at her in a faintly puzzled
manner. "It is fact, Immaculate. Need I list all the unwise things I have done or said? The Lady
Herself agrees that I lack Wisdom. It is alright to say, it is simply the truth."

Clicking her tongue in answer, Princess Nabithia says, "You think most harshly of your own judgment,
and take the slightest chastisement from the Lady as a weight to anchor you, rather than a means of
guidance."

Shrugging so that the starlit silks shimmer about her form, Princess Nabithia says, "We all possess
weakness, no? We are but mortals. Even Divine have Their faults."

His manner serious, Avaris says, "Of course I think harshly of my judgement. I have
displayed its failings amply. I would not say that I take Her admonishments as anchors, either."
With a brief shrug that sets the thick fluff of his mane to drifting lazily, he replies, "Yes. Some
more than others. There is no crime in that, Immaculate. Why are you irritated with me?"

Simply, Princess Nabithia says, "I believe you underestimate yourself."

Flicking the notion away with a small motion of his lower left hand, Avaris says,
"I know my worth, Immaculate. It is kind of you to think better of me than I am."

Her antennae squirming once more with something akin to annoyance, Princess Nabithia says, "I do not
think you weigh it properly."

Princess Nabithia says, "But that is not for me to say, I suppose. The Empyreal's judgment is the
only one you might listen to, no?"

His own antennae town between faint dismay and bafflement, Avaris breathes a faint
sound of exasperation. "I do not know why you would think that. And of course I would listen to our
Lady's judgement. She is very Wise."

Steepling her fingers to rest her chin on her hands, Princess Nabithia comments, "I have watched
many come and go from the Vanishing Isles, Enduring Avaris. I have gained, I believe, some amount of
knowledge regarding the Wisdom of those who pass through."

Warily, Avaris lowers his head in a slow nod, his manner cautious, as one expecting
a hidden pitfall. "That seems likely, yes."

Princess Nabithia says, "I have witnessed many lost to time who imagine the Lady in terms of how She
fits within their own lives. How their Devotion to Her enhances themselves, rather than how their
Devotion enhances service to the Lady. There is merit in this, and yet, it limits the Wisdom they
glean from Her pillars."

With a patient gesture of her hand, Princess Nabithia says, "Should they depart the city, they
cannot take the Lady with them. And they forget this."

Her compound eyes shining clearly, Princess Nabithia says to you, "You who think so devoutly of the
Lady and what service to Her means, who are so critical of yourself in your pursuit of Her faith,
are able to seek Wisdom that such others cannot."

You think to yourself: A severe sense of disapproval, and sharp displeasure at such a selfish view
of the Order, and service to his Lady.

Watching Princess Nabithia with no small degree of bemusement, Avaris utters a low,
dubious sound that vibrates in the air for a moment. "Perhaps. I do not think I will ever be Wise,
Immaculate. I do not have the mind or the temperament for it. You have seen how I am." He lifts a
hand, gesturing emphatically. "I have done little but upset the Divine, even allied ones. I tread on
the feelings of others constantly. I have little good advice to give. I am just a defective soldier,
Immaculate. You do not need to defend me. It is alright."

Continuing in a soft, reassuring buzz, Princess Nabithia says, "Wisdom is not an inherently known
thing, Enduring Avaris. It is learned through careful study, and choosing the correct approach in
its pursuit. To not have Wisdom is a temporary state of being. It can always be gained."

Shoulders slumping slightly, Avaris breathes a faintly agitated sigh, though he
nods, reluctantly. "Perhaps."

Princess Nabithia says, "You may choose to learn it by placing your hands on a hot stove, while
others learn merely by watching the flame flickering and knowing it to be hot. Either method,
however, results in learning."

"I think that just means that I am particularly stupid, Immaculate." Avaris says
dryly, before holding up a forestalling hand. "I do not wish to argue with you, as well. Just...Be
prepared for me to languish at this portion for some time, yes? I have not the faintest idea how to
proceed with the step within the Order."

Patiently, Princess Nabithia says, "Wisdom is often gained with others, rather than in isolation."

Princess Nabithia says to you, "You are not stupid. If you were, you would not be so vexed regarding
this task. You are too self-aware of the potential for failure. That is your true weakness in this
trial."

Evidently unconvinced, Avaris nonetheless dips his head in a polite nod, striving
for diplomacy as he says, "It is good that I am no longer isolated, then."

With a warm harmony of buzzes, Princess Nabithia says, "You see? You are already learning."

Shaking his head slightly, albeit in a fond manner, Avaris waves the statement
away. "I have been meaning to ask. People often inquire about our Lady, or wish to speak to someone
who knows of Her. What would you recommend doing with such?"

Shrugging, the starlit silks shifting with the breezy movement, Princess Nabithia says, "The
Immaculate and Anointed are present for such matters. Failing that, you are approaching the rank of
Anointed yourself. You should know enough to speak of Her, at least somewhat."

Quirking an antennae, Princess Nabithia says to you, "Or do you doubt your eloquence on the
subject?"

In a faintly irritated manner, though clearly not directed at Princess Nabithia,
Avaris remarks, "Every time I have suggested the Immculate and the Anointed to others, they have
instead opted to speak to me on the matter, ever since I first joined. It baffles me. Why would they
not seek out Lady Aeldra or Anointed Alarin, or yourself?" He offers an off-handed nod to Princess
Nabithia's query. "Naturally. I am not eloquent even with simple matters, and our Lady and Her
teachings are hardly simple."

Clicking her tongue in thought, Princess Nabithia says, "Perhaps you are too accessible? Do the
others not much wake?"

Avaris gives his wedge-shaped head a slight shake. "Anointed Alarin rarely rests,
and the others are typically awake more often than I, I believe." With a dry note of amusement, he
remarks, "It is hardly my warm, approachable demeanour, and welcoming appearance."

Looking perplexed, Princess Nabithia says, "Perhaps the light of your Devotion burns brighter than
most? I am not present within the Star City enough to say, in truth."

Curious, Princess Nabithia says, "What do you make of it?"

Equally baffled, Avaris lifts his massive shoulders in a slow shrug. "You see why I
have been wondering upon it. It makes little sense. I have no idea, truthfully. There does not
appear to be any actual reason for them to opt for myself, other than perhaps I am the one that has
provided a list of people to seek out." Vaguely, he offers, "Perhaps they are...Impatient?"

Benignly, Princess Nabithia says, "Most mortals are."

Mystified, Avaris shakes his head, the fading sunlight glinting off the curved
blades of his crest. "Indeed. Ah - You never answered what you might find to be a pleasant activity,
in the city."

Considering this, Princess Nabithia says, "Ah. I suppose not." She clicks her tongue thoughtfully.
"Do you have a favored pastime?"

Contemplating the question with a ponderous tilt of his jaw, Avaris is quite a
while in answering, as if searching his mind at length. "Hm. Will you cut me with your steely tongue
again if I answer something relating to our Lady?"

Princess Nabithia mimes the locking of her mandibles as if with an invisible key, tossing it aside.

Laughing softly, Avaris dips his head in gratitude, before growing more thoughtful.
"I like to wander, sometimes, and think of what it might be like for Her to do so. What would She
think of this shaded alcove, I ask myself. Would She sit there and read quietly, if She could?"
Faintly embarrassed, he lifts a hand to toy with the dense ruff of his mane, shrugging self-
consciously. "I think what it might be like for Her if She could be mortal, or appear so, and just
experience life as we do, here. What it might be like to go for a walk with Her, and just enjoy
seeing Her react to things. Is that strange?"

The markings of his wings flush pink as Avaris says, "I think that it is strange. I
should not have said anything, I am sorry."

Rather than acting startled or displeased, Princess Nabithia takes a moment to imagine the scenario
herself, humming slightly as she does so. "It is strange to imagine such an ancient being as a
mortal," she says, commenting aloud rather than criticizing. "To walk with less power in each step,
and to exude less presence. A single Elder's splintering forms thousands of shards. Is it any wonder
that They feel so deeply and keenly, when They comprise the potential for endless cycles of brief
mortality?"

Turning the thought over in his mind in contemplative silence, Avaris's antennae
twist and flow slowly for a time before he nods, the gesture slight. "I had not thought of it that
way. Do you think They would be...Less Themselves, or...Thinner, somehow, if They could somehow
become a mortal, without splintering?"

Princess Nabithia says, "What we know of splintering suggests so. That each generation fades more
and more from the initial consciousness of the Elder, until at last the memories They once possessed
are no more."

Princess Nabithia says, "But I do not believe an Elder can become mortal without splintering, no.
Not in the sense that we are mortal, at least."

Considering, her antennae twitching, Princess Nabithia says, "Though They may choose to feign it, I
suppose."

Princess Nabithia says, "I have read that once in a ball within the city of Hallifax, many an Elder
appeared disguised as a mortal to dance. Even the Creatrix Herself."

Visibly troubled, Avaris lowers his hands to fold them together over the hollow
between his crossed legs. "Mm. That seems likely. I wonder if our Lady ever would, for Her own
amusement, or curiosity. It would provide Her a very different perspective, I think." Lifting his
gaze to regard the stars for a time, there is something ineffably wistful about the kephera as he
stares upwards at that which is so very far from his reach. To himself, he murmurs, "Dancing."
Inhaling deeply, he breathes a slow, quiet sigh. "Do you think She dances, Immaculate? Not in
public, I imagine, but...Maybe in seclusion, She used to."

Her antennae rearranging into the perfect crown upon her brow, Princess Nabithia says, "Hm. I have
never seen Her do so. Yet for a being who holds such a regard for music, and was beloved of a Keeper
of Song, it is difficult to imagine She has never practised the art Herself."

The azure of his eyes filling with gentle starlight of their own, Avaris dips his
head in slow, small motions. "I think it would be perhaps the most wonderful sight in all of
creation, to see Her dance."

"You are that convinced She is a graceful being?" Princess Nabithia asks, teasing mildly.

Loyally, Avaris pronounces, "She is very graceful, and elegant." With a sideways
flick of his antenna in Princess Nabithia's direction, he says, so softly that only Princess
Nabithia might hear it, "It does not matter if She is graceful while dancing, Immaculate. It would
be a joy, simply to see Her do so."

With a polite buzz of agreement, Princess Nabithia says, "It is a pleasure to see the Goddess happy,
yes. Whatever form that takes."

Avaris's pointed chin dips down in a sharp, firm nod of agreement. "Yes. It is."
Finally turning his gaze from the stars, he glances at Princess Nabithia curiously, inquiring, "Do
you like to dance, Immaculate?"

Princess Nabithia says, "Mm? Yes, from time to time, when company is pleasant. I am not so averse to
crowds as others."

Her own antennae quirking curiously, Princess Nabithia says, "And you, Enduring Avaris? I presume
you are fond of dance, from how you speak of it so fondly."

In a somewhat evasive manner, Avaris answers, "I enjoy watching others dance, and
having a good time doing so, yes."

With a slow, knowing nod, Princess Nabithia says, "You are a wallflower. I see."

With a quiet sound of mild disagreement, Avaris "Something like that. I do not
think it truly matters, any more." With a mild wave at his form, he continues, "I think my dancing
days are over."

Princess Nabithia says, "You once danced, then?"

Avaris lifts a spiked shoulder in a slight shrug. "I learned, yes. It was, to my
mind, vital that a knight should be able to dance, and dance excellently." A faint laugh. "Silly
notion, I suppose. I have never put it to proper use."

Princess Nabithia says, "There are at times Festivals of Light within the city that make use of the
ballroom. You may find the knowledge useful to you then."

Gently, Avaris says, "Immaculate, I am far too large to dance with anyone, now. In
addition, I am all sharp edges and hard plating. Hardly ideal for the act."

Princess Nabithia shrugs, saying, "If you do not wish to dance, then do not. If you wish to,
however, consider finding solutions to your problem, rather than accepting the walls you face."

Tilting his head at Princess Nabithia, Avaris asks, "Solutions? Shall I make stilts
for dance partners, and wrap myself all in cotton?" Holding up a palm in a peaceable gesture, he
says, "I do not mean to bite, Immaculate. That was unworthy of me. I am sorry. I do not even know
who I would dance with, if I could." Gesturing at Princess Nabithia with a small, circular motion of
his hand, he asks, "Do you have anyone in particular you would wish to dance with?"

A breezy quality to her harmony of buzzes, Princess Nabithia says, "Oh, I am not much concerned
about who it is dancing, so long as they possess rhythm and good humor."

With good humor, patting her rosy exoskeleton, Princess Nabithia says to you, "You do not bite hard
enough to harm. I am hardier than that."

The air about him shivering with a gentle, harmonic laugh, Avaris nods his head
repeatedly in a slight, bobbing motion. "That seems like you, yes." Tilting his jaw up defiantly, he
challenges, an amused glint in his seven eyes, "Oh? You have not seen my teeth in truth, Immaculate.
I could bite you clean in two, if I wished to."

Sticking out her tongue, Princess Nabithia says, "Then you must fear me enough not to do so."

Warmly, Princess Nabithia says, "And who would you dance with, then? Or would you prefer simply to
watch, and not dance at all?"

Snorting with derisive amusement, Avaris waves Princess Nabithia off unconcernedly.
"Hardly. It would simply be imroper. You are an Immaculate, after all." At the question, however, he
grows more serious, antennae curving downward. "I am mannerly enough to accept requests from any
that might, for whatever reason, wish to have a dance with me. As for want, well." The golden spears
of his shoulders rise in an impassive shrug. "Within the realm of possibility? None come to mind."

With feigned insult, Princess Nabithia says, "No desire to dance with me, Enduring Avaris? How
hurtful."

In a benign, even manner, Avaris says, "Mannerly enough to accept requests.
Besides, you require good humour in your partners, do you not?" With a mock-dismissive flick of his
hand, turning his head up and aside, he continues, "No doubt you would be too busy with all your
suitors to make time for me, regardless."

Waving her hand airily, Princess Nabithia says, "Perhaps when I need to escape I will hide behind
your large, imposing figure."

Princess Nabithia says, "And you might frighten the hoards away."

With a gracious nod, Avaris agrees, "I make for a fitting bulwark in times of
strife, indeed. I may even deign to menace them, so that you can collect yourself enough to sally
forth from behind my aegis, and lay waste to them with your keen wit and cruel tongue.

Princess Nabithia says, "That seems a most pleasing arrangement, Enduring Avaris. I will remember
this should any dancing occurs."

Voice resonating with choral harmonics, you say, "I am sure that you will, Immaculate Nabithia."

Princess Nabithia hums a happy tune.

Princess Nabithia says to you, "How funny it would be to see Lady Terentia and Lady Carakhan dance
as well."

Princess Nabithia says, "All three Goddesses would be most intimidating dance partners."

Avaris's antennae grow still at this, and there is a slight delay before he
inclines his head in agreement. "It would be something, yes. I find it difficult to imagine Them
deigning to do so, with mortals, admittedly. Courageous indeed would be the soul that would take up
those worthy challenges."

There is a hint of mischief in Princess Nabithia as she speaks, as if imagining a particularly lurid
scenario. "I would pity the mortal who stepped upon the Even Bladed's foot," she says, chittering
softly in a low whisper. Then she covers her mouth, as if realizing she has, at last, taken her barb
in a direction that could swerve back at her.

The curving edge of Avaris's leftmost antennae bends towards Princess Nabithia as
he eyes the Princesss sidelong for a beat. There is a brief period of time in which it seems he
weighs his options, until eventually he elects to say, in a serene manner, "It is well that She
wears very sturdy armour. Perhaps She would not feel it."

Clearing her throat, Princess Nabithia says, "Indeed. That is a likely outcome, yes."

Her antennae settling about her brow in a crown, Princess Nabithia says to you, "This has been an
interesting game of wondering. How Divine might wander the world as mortals, how They might deign to
dance. I can see why you enjoy the pastime."

Avaris inclines his head in a slight nod. "A risk that those dancing with the Lady
Sculptor may not run. She does not have feet, does She?" In an amiable manner, he hums a pleasant
sound of agreement. "It is one that I enjoy, yes. I thought that you might, given what I know of how
your mind works. Who would you like to dance with, the most, of all the Divine?"

Using her tongue and the roof of her mouth, Princess Nabithia makes a quiet clicking noise.

Princess Nabithia says, "That is well. The Lady Sculptor would be a fine partner. I can imagine Her
whirling about with the beauty and passion of Her waves."

Contemplating the matter, Princess Nabithia says, "I do not think our Lady would be much given to
dancing, in truth. It is difficult to imagine Her being so expressive in a crowd. It is unlike Her,
with Her mists and veils."

In ready agreement, Avaris says, "Yes, indeed. It would take a very skilled partner
to keep pace with Her, I think." At the mention of their Lady, he dips his chin down, stating,
"Indeed. Possibly in private, though I cannot imagine the situation where She would deign to do so.
I think it would be lovely, though - Because of Her mist and veils. Elegant and flowing."

Continuing onwards, acknowledging the point with a brief nod, Princess Nabithia says, "I believe the
Lady Isune was known for dancing with mortals upon Her return to the Basin of Life, within the city
of Hallifax. She would be an enjoyable partner, as well."

Avaris tilts his head aside, uttering a quiet sound of surprise. "I was not aware.
That is interesting to learn."

Dipping her head low, Princess Nabithia says, "Indeed. Records state it was this very ball that drew
Elders in disguise to dance."

Princess Nabithia says, "It is a fascinating read."

Lifting a clawed finger to toy at the ruff about his throat, Avaris nods in a
thoughtful manner. "I shall have to peruse it myself, sometime."

Princess Nabithia says, "Elders are fascinating, no? So much like us, and yet not at all."

Princess Nabithia's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Emphatically, Avaris agrees, "Oh, yes. They are the single most fascinating
entities in existence, to my view. I think there is something in Them that calls to us, in a way
that lacks defining."

Voice resonating with choral harmonics, you say, "And, I think, we call to Them, if but with a much
fainter echo."

Princess Nabithia says, "The Lady has used that word before to refer to mortals and half-formed
alike in comparison to Elders -- echo. It is an interesting comparison."

Rising to her feet, Princess Nabithia says, "Ah, I have enjoyed this talk and all this imagining.
But I believe I ought to return to the Vanishing Isles once more." She bows her head, her crowned
antennae perfectly poised as she says, "I thank you for speaking with me. I am less angered than I
was at the start of our meeting."

Antennae flicking upright with interest, Avaris says, "Has She? That is curious."
Rising as Princess Nabithia does, he bends at the waist in a deep, formal bow. "I am sorry, again,
Immaculate Nabithia. I will keep striving to make it up to you. I wish you well. Thank you for your
company, as ever."

Princess Nabithia says, "It is well. My anger is swift and hot, but cools as quickly."

Avaris dips his head in a nod of acknowledgement. "Even so."

With a palm upturned, Princess Nabithia says, "I do not think my anger shall last. It is already
much faded. But I thank you for your concern, Enduring Avaris. It helps dampen the embers."

Voice resonating with choral harmonics, you say, "I am gladdened to hear it, Immaculate. I hope that
you rest well."

Princess Nabithia bows once more at the waist, stating, "Light's blessings upon you, Enduring
Avaris."

Her antennae attuning to some far-off sound, Princess Nabithia excuses herself to the south in a
whirl of starry silks.

Avaris turns his head up towards the evening sky, slipping his hands together
beneath the cloak of his wings.

You think to yourself: "Ah. I have caused much damage, with my foolishness. I have a great deal of
repairing to do."