P.S. Olikai would love to meet you.

With a high-pitched hoot, a great horned owl wings in and deposits an elegant white letter into your hands, then flaps off again.

You blink.

READ LETTER
You read what is written on an elegant white letter:

Dear Gurashi,

We haven't talked in a long time.

I miss your music and dancing. It does not matter to me what you look
like. I can you see in there.

Will you come visit?


Duethielle Ladrennbenn


P.S. Olikai would love to meet you.

~~~

You blink.

You blink.

You flail about helplessly.

Quietly, you exclaim, "...g-gosh, oh - Bizi! It is from Miss Duet!"

You have emoted: Gurashi holds out the letter for the leothin to read, eyes wide. "She wants us to visit... uhm. We should... bring snacks!"

You huff, puffing your cheeks.

Your melodic voice sings into Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon's mind, "Miss Lief! Where ... oh where is Miss Duet's marketplace again?"

Lief tells you, "Oh, I can help show you there!"

Your melodic voice sings into Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon's mind, "Where - oh! O-K!"

You have emoted: Gurashi bites their lower lip, then folds the letter as it was originally received, face lighting up. "Is a marketplace..."

You ponder the situation.

<-- Walkies walkies

Moon River mouth.
Superimposed over this location, an ethereal forest reaches up to the sky. A thick cover of clouds obscures the sky in a sheet of dense white. The waters of the Moon River to the northwest flow here into the cold blue of the Inner Sea. The tide reaches into the river a small distance, kicking white-flecked waves against the far-away banks. Islands of sand have gathered where the tides are not so violent, and cormorants and black-headed gulls circle above, waiting for a meal of fish. To the southeast, the vast expanse of the Inner Sea stretches as far as the eye can see.
You see exits leading southeast and northwest.

Your snout twitches and trembles at the air, sensing through a striped badger nose upon your face the faint traces of others in the surrounding area.
You make out the scent of Faythe coming from above a sheer drop.
You make out the scent of Tristanna coming from above a sheer drop.
You make out the scent of Elexia coming from beautiful woods.
You make out the scent of Lief coming from beautiful woods.
You make out the scent of Calfuray coming from the Moonhart Mother Tree.
You make out the scent of Taemira coming from the Moonhart Mother Tree.
You make out the scent of Elarin coming from above a sheer drop.

You blink.

Lief tells you, "When would you like to visit?"

Your melodic voice sings into Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon's mind, "I ... am unsure. I just received a letter from her."

Your melodic voice sings into Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon's mind, "But, I do not know if it was sent while I was still waking up, or ... was a while ago? She wants me to meet Olikai...? That is her wife, right? You said her wife?"

Your melodic voice sings into Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon's mind, "I am actually... in Serenwilde, right now! Sitting, in the river, near the ocean. It is wet."

Lief tells you, "Oh! How exciting...! Whenever you would like to visit, just let me know! If you want time to prepare, I have something to bind...but yes! Yes, Olikai is her wife!"

Your melodic voice sings into Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon's mind, "I am all good, I have some me-cookies for everybody, just in case."

Your melodic voice sings into Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon's mind, "But I do not want to inconvenience you, oh no."

Lief dances down a moonbeam and alights gently on the ground.

You giggle happily.

You begin to follow Lief.

Lief beams broadly at you.

Lief flits about happily.

Elexia dances down a moonbeam and alights gently on the ground.

Lief claps her hands together merrily.

Lief beams broadly at Elexia.

Perking up, you say, "Oh - hi!"

You tilt your head curiously.

Waving a hand merrily, Regent Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon says, "Well met, well met!"

You follow Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon north to sheltered hollow.

Quietly, you say, "I have never been inside of the Serenwildes proper..."

Flitting merrily about, Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon asks you, "Isn't it lovely to be here?"

Perking up, you ask Elexia, "Hello Miss Elexia! How have you been?"

With a gentle smile, Regent Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon says, "It is good to see you, dear friend..." Her pointed ears twitch, and she blinks in surprise. "You haven't, have you...? It's a place like no other."

Folding a hand over her heart as she darts to and fro in the air, Regent Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon says, "I am well indeed, thank you! Well indeed!"

Excitedly, Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon says to you, "You can see that it's very close to the river - just a bit north and east."

You tilt your head curiously.

Lief gestures eastward before, with a laugh, following the path.

You follow Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon east to hidden glade market.

Hidden glade market.
There is but a light breeze blowing. A painting of cookie-bound bliss has been enshrined on a shelf here, festooned with flowers and leaf garlands and a trail of mouldy cookie crumbs. Her olive skin glowing with beauty, Duethielle Landrennbenn sings to herself. Shimmering with a stately posture, Olikai Clawheart floats in the air. A mature hornbeam tree stands proudly here. Reaching up as high as the eye can see looms the awesome presence of a living totem.
You see a single exit leading west.

Excitedly, you say, "Oh...! Oh, you are right."

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

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

LOOK OLIKAI
Floating in the air as if she were a mirage, Olikai Clawheart is an loboshigaru woman of gentle elegance. She stands tall, with a long, refined snout and ears that drape down the sides of her head like fine, wavy hair. Though translucent of form, she bears the full colours of her pelt in faded saturation: a warm red run through with streaks of silver along her ears, upon her chest, and on the back of her hands and feet. Her eyes are liquid brown, a quiet kindness behind them. Upon her long-furred body drapes a fine robe woven in blue, decorated with the fauna of the forest dancing in leaping circles about one another. A satchel of the same faded translucence as her body hangs from her shoulder and across her front, a simple golden clasp in the form of a bumblebee holding it closed. Now and again, her long, luxurious tail waves at the hem of her robes, shifting back and forth in thought or in welcome.
Olikai Clawheart looks to be crushingly strong.

Lief claps her hands together merrily, her wings humming behind her.

Your reaction makes Elexia beam all the more brightly. She folds her hands behind her back, swaying idly in the air.

Lief says quietly to Elexia, "It will be good for us to visit too, I think."

You have emoted: Gurashi's face lights up as soon as they see Duethielle Ladrennbenn, squeezing their mandolin close to their chest with one hand and waving excitedly with the other. "Hello~!" They call out, voice ringing clear throughout the glade. "Am here!"

You strike a pose.
Bizirik, the leothin strikes a pose.

Lief covers her mouth as she turns, giggles, and waves.

Bizirik, the leothin chatters, tossing its head and looking up at you as it quickly abandons its pose, snorting.

Elexia's violet eyes look to Lief, and she nods in earnest agreement. She, too, extends a merry wave to those present in the glade.

Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon laughingly says to Olikai Clawheart, "It is good to see you here with us still, Olikai!"

Duethielle Ladrennbenn turns her gaze from Olikai to you. Her eyes are dreamy for a moment, but they soon clear in recognition. "Gurashi!" She breaks into a wide smile.

With a chipper nod, Regent Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon says to Olikai Clawheart, "Yes, yes! I pray you've been settling in well after your long-awaited return to the Serenwilde?"

You have emoted: Gurashi's gaze finally falls on Olikai Clawheart, and a quiet settles about them as they look at the strangely translucent figure of the loboshigaru. "Oh - you must be..."

Bright and clear, you say to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "I am sorry if am late - but - am here, now, yes."

You blush furiously.

Lief clasps her hands together before herself, beaming all around at the group as she hovers near Elexia.

The cold voice of Adrien sends chills down your spine, "Ah, cousin."

Your melodic voice sings into Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Adrien Shee-Slaugh's mind, "*a distracted, brightly colored hum* Hello, Mister Adrien~!"

Elexia smiles brightly as she sways lightly with the breeze near Lief.

The cold voice of Adrien sends chills down your spine, "Are you well?"

Your melodic voice sings into Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Adrien Shee-Slaugh's mind, "*a thrum* Mm~ Am visiting with my friend...!"

The cold voice of Adrien sends chills down your spine, "Oh? Which one?"

Your melodic voice sings into Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Adrien Shee-Slaugh's mind, "Miss Duethielle!"

The cold voice of Adrien sends chills down your spine, "I cannot say the name is familiar... but is she well, also?"

Your melodic voice sings into Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Adrien Shee-Slaugh's mind, "Yes! Her wife is back, and so she is present and happy...!"

Your melodic voice sings into Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Adrien Shee-Slaugh's mind, "*a sense of joy, swirling bright colors* How are you??"

Olikai Clawheart mirror's her wife's gaze, turning to face you, Elexia, and Lief. "Oh, hello, everyone!" Her tail shifts back and forth at the hem of her robe as she floats towards you in particular. "You must be the Gurashi I've heard so much about."

You have emoted: Gurashi slings their instrument across their shoulder hurriedly, stepping forward and offering their hand to Olikai Clawheart. "Y-yes! Is me! Am Gurashi! You must be..." They pause. "...Ooooolikai?"

One of Elexia's pointed ears twitches, and she glances curiously at Lief.

You think to yourself: *swirling, chaotic, kaleidoscopic colors* is -floating- ...!

The cold voice of Adrien sends chills down your spine, "I am.... Trying to see who our stage managers are."

Your melodic voice sings into Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Adrien Shee-Slaugh's mind, "A-ah, am sorry! I cannot see anything within the Glomdoring related to my old jobs anymore..."

Your melodic voice sings into Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Adrien Shee-Slaugh's mind, "... oh. Uhm. Think would have been cultural of minister thing, any of the aides could do the thingy ... uh... may have to ask another Minister to give you permissions? I am uncertain how works, mostly just was told to do the thing and so I did a thing."

The cold voice of Adrien sends chills down your spine, "Ah, I don't need permissions, just.... a production." <-- I missed this ;~;

Lief flashes Elexia a grin, her hands still clasped before herself as she sways gently in the air upon humming dragonfly wings.

Olikai Clawheart reaches out with her ghostly hand and shakes your hand warmly. It is odd seeing through her flesh to what is on the other side, but her flesh is solid enough.

Lief suddenly covers her ears with a wince toward Elexia and laughter. "Yes," she whispers, "a date."

Elexia's hand flies up to her mouth, and she stares at Lief with wide eyes. Wordlessly, she emphatically gestures.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn stares at you fixedly, her smile bright and wide as she stand next to the ghostly loboshigaru. Her hands clutch at her long, white braid, plaiting and unplaiting as she looks on.

You have emoted: Despite an initial look of surprise, Gurashi shakes Olikai Clawheart's hand gratefully, not taking their eyes off the loboshigaru. "You are Miss Duethielle's wife - the one she was always going to see! And talking about! You are here!" They smile broader, before casually commenting, "You are see-through."

Clearly undergoing great effort to restrain her excitement at Lief's words, Elexia's eyes are filled with effulgent excitement. "Vestian..." she whispers the word. Then, nodding not once, but thrice, she whispers excitedly in return, "I will be there, I will be there!"

Lief wings merrily about the gathering, humming to herself until her ears perk up suddenly.

Among the sparkling motes of light, a translucent figure appears in the air and then quickly solidifies as Zitto comes into view.

Lief flits to Zitto, taking him by the hand with a fond smile.

Quietly, Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon asks Zitto, "Have you met Duethielle and Olikai yourself just yet?"

Zitto offers a polite bow to the assembled group as he accepts Lief's hand.

As Zitto arrives, Elexia beams at him brightly, waving with merry excitement. She cants her head curiously at him.

Quieter still, Lief says to Zitto, "I wrote to you about them."

Olikai Clawheart laughs, her voice warm and rich, like the red of her pelt. "I am very much see-through." She turns and places a hand on Duethielle's shoulder. "Though not to Duet."

Lord Zitto Shevat, a Servant Renewed says to Lief, "I have not, but I recall what you wrote."

You face lights up as you smile brightly at Duethielle Ladrennbenn.

Warmly, you say to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "Hi hi, Miss Duet. You must be -very- happy, yes."

You think to yourself: *warm pastels, suddenly swirling pink, flecked with gold*.

Lief's gaze flickers curiously from Zitto to Duethielle Ladrennbenn and Olikai Clawheart, suddenly curious. "You can see your wife like she's fully here?" she asks the former with a tilt of her antlered head.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks back up at Olikai Clawheart, canting their head and bringing their mandolin forward again, holding the instrument loosely. "Where did you go? Miss Duethielle seemed to miss you an awful lot."

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly notices Zitto's arrival, waving hello.

Elexia's pointed ears twitch with interest, and she glances first between Lief and you, and then to Duethielle Ladrennbenn and Olikai Clawheart.

Lord Zitto Shevat, a Servant Renewed says to you, "Hello, friend!"

Duethielle Ladrennbenn startles at Olikai's touch and turns her gaze to Olikai. As she stares, her expression softens. "I see you," she says, before turning back to you, adding, "You came." She lets go of her un-bound braid and walks forward, planting a small kiss on your cheek. "Thank you..."

Lief squeezes Zitto's hand, smiling as she watches and she listens.

In an aside, Olikai Clawheart says to Lief, "It seems... she's seen me this entire time that I had been trapped beyond the Veil. Or looking for me, at least."

Elexia's smile grows soft, and her hand rises up to her heart.

Quietly, though still smiling, Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon says to Olikai Clawheart, "She has been seeing you, or searching for you, for years upon years. We've seen her do so." She pauses, and then smiles deeper. "Binky and Miaei and Gurashi made sure she had good company while she did."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks back at Duethielle Ladrennbenn, smiling even broader as the elfen leans in to peck their cheek, flushing slightly. "Of course I did."

You tilt your head curiously at Olikai Clawheart.

Elexia nods her head at Lief, showing her acceptance.

Softly, you ask Olikai Clawheart, "You were trapped beyond the Veil...?"

The cold voice of Adrien sends chills down your spine, "Aaah... Serenwilde."

Your melodic voice sings into Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Adrien Shee-Slaugh's mind, "Yes yes - She is a market vendor here! She is my friend. Her wife is back from beyond the Veil! She seems very nicely."

You think to yourself: *the bright, whirling colors now dimmer, desaturated, pulsing curiously*.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn lifts a hand to lightly touch your cheek, examining the crescent-shaped scar. Tears spring to her eyes. "You are hurt..." she murmurs.

You blink.

Elexia's brow furrows quietly, as she looks over to you.

Olikai Clawheart nods at you, rather matter of fact as she answers, "I uh... went a bit too far with a ritual. Gone awry." She dips her head, her long flowing ears waving as she gestures towards the Serens present. "Serenwilders brought me back, thankfully. Though not ENTIRELY BACK." She pats her translucent body dubiously.

Zitto turns to regard you and Duethielle, a concerned frown on his face.

You have emoted: Gurashi is listening to Olikai Clawheart's explanation patiently, their eyes wide and expression concerned. "Is why you are floating..." Suddenly, their attention is drawn to the hand on their cheek, and they look at Duethielle Ladrennbenn with widening eyes as they watch the elfen's fill with tears.

Almost a mirror of Elexia's expression, Lief likewise knits her brow, averting her gaze to one side. As she hears Olikai Clawheart, though, she looks back up and smiles slightly. "Have the Listeners at the Veil made any progress on working through just what happened in your ritual?"

Quickly reaching up to touch her hand, you say to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "Oh! Oh, oh, no no. No no no, it is O-K," They insist, quiet and urgent, "it does not even hurt anymore - I promise!"

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

Elexia seems unconvinced by your assurances, her brow remaining furrowed for a time. But, she turns to Olikai Clawheart, nodding briefly to Lief as she says, "Yes, is there any word? We shall have to find a way to bring you here wholly."

You think to yourself: *a sudden flood of blues, mixing with pinks, deepening indigo - guilt*.

Olikai Clawheart floats towards Duethielle, lightly caressing her shoulder for a moment in consolation. She then turns to face Lief and Elexia. "No one has spoken to me, that I was aware of, since my return." She smiles, showing her bright teeth. "But it is enough that I am back, somewhat."

Lief bows her antlered head to Olikai Clawheart, then taps her freckled cheek with her free hand as she considers something to herself. She is quiet, empathy knit into her brow.

You have emoted: Gurashi lets out a little noise, giving Duethielle Ladrennbenn's hand a firmer squeeze. "Yes." They say finally, digging through their pockets until they produce a plain white kerchief which they use to gently wipe at the elfen's tears. "But look. I am still here! And I still have all of my parts. It is O-K."

Elexia twists her mouth in thought, nodding to Olikai Clawheart. "It is good," she agrees, "But I would have us do more still. I will reach out, and see if we can bring you more aid in this." A gentle smile spreads across her features. "But, we are so pleased that you have returned."

Drawing back slightly, Duethielle Ladrennbenn takes your hand into her own, cupping it with both of hers. The tattoos on the back of her hands shift and move, as if of their own accord. She smiles again. "You are talking..."

Sheepishly, you say to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "You do not have to cry for me - unless, they are happy tears, yes?" They gently boop the end of her nose with their free hand. "I am, I am ... I was going to ask if you noticed, but you did!"

"Of course Duethielle would notice," Lief says to you with a little laugh. "She sees so much!"

You face lights up as you smile brightly at Lief.

Olikai Clawheart sighs softly, watching Duethielle Ladrennbenn. She says softly, "Duet has been this way since my return." She turns to Elexia, adding, "I think while I have returned somewhat from the Veil, she has... gone into it in another way." She shakes her head, ears brushing her long cheeks. "To find me."

Olikai Clawheart says, "But Binky tells me she's been this way for a long time. So, I guess you are all used to it?"

You have emoted: Gurashi lets out a low, gentle hum, letting their hand rest within Duethielle Ladrennbenn's. "Yes." They answer Olikai Clawheart's question gently, without looking at the loboshigaru.

Elexia's pointed ears twitch to catch Olikai Clawheart's words, and her gentle smile is once again replaced by the thoughtful frown and knit of her brow. "Binky had mentioned she had been distant for a long time, aye. For as long as we've known her ourselves. To think that this is why..." She slowly nods. "It all makes sense."

Lief exhales softly, wistfully, slipping her arm through Zitto's own as she listens, and then she nods to Olikai Clawheart in agreement with Elexia's words.

Never taking their eyes off the elfen, you say to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "I also found my -musics- again, so I will have to write some new songs to sing for you."

You face lights up as you smile brightly at Olikai Clawheart.

Faythe dances down a moonbeam and alights gently on the ground.

Finally turning their head, you say to Olikai Clawheart, "And you! Both of you."

You beam broadly.

You beam broadly at Duethielle Ladrennbenn.

Her ears twitching, Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon asks you, "Have you written any new songs of late?"

Duethielle Ladrennbenn presses her forehead against your hand, humming softly as her tears still well in her eyes, dropping onto your fingers. She hums in tune to you, swaying back and forth.

Elexia's thoughtful frown is interrupted by Faythe, a small smile in its place. She waves a hand to Faythe in greeting, chiming, "Sister, hello!"

Zitto pulls close to Lief, still content to keep his silence as he listens to those gathered.

Faythe freezes, flushing as she glances at Elexia. "I'm sorry, I didn't realize you were with a group," she whispers to her.

You think to yourself: * a deeper swirl of color... gray-blue - concern and regret *.

With a gentle smile, Regent Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon says to Faythe, "Just with friends, my dear! You are welcome to stay."

Olikai Clawheart leans forward to pick up Duethielle's long, white braid. With a soft look in her liquid brown eyes, Olikai finishes the braiding, tying it with a length of blue string in a cute little bow. She nods gratefully at you. "Thank you for being here for her, when I could not be. She told me you took her skating on the ice."

Wodewose Faythe whispers to Elexia, "I don't want to interrupt. I had a question for you about the ministry, I will come back later..."

You have emoted: Gurashi's face falls slightly as they catch Duethielle Ladrennbenn's still falling tears, stooping slightly and canting their head to the side, failing to respond to Lief's question. "I did," They say in response to Olikai Clawheart's question. "It was an awful lot of fun, too. She is very good at skating..." They hum again, low and thoughtful.

Lief's gaze upon Zitto is quiet and tender, lingering for several moments before she turns her attention back to you, Duethielle Ladrennbenn, and Olikai Clawheart.

Faythe glances up hesitantly at the others gathered, lingering near Elexia.

Curling their fingers against Duethielle's forehead, you say to Olikai Clawheart, "She said you love the snow."

You gaze softens as you smile.

Elexia smiles softly to Faythe, winging close to the elfen's ear as she whispers, "If you would like - but you don't have to go!" She nods her head emphatically. "But, I will always be available to hear of the Ministry, dear."

The melodious voice of Irulan resonates in your mind, "Glomdoring does not tell me who is my enemy or otherwise. I see that the Goddess Viravain has decided you are worthy to be noticed, and in this I will follow Her lead."

Faythe leans forward, whispering something softly in Elexia's ear.

Zitto turns to Faythe, offering the faintest of grins.

Faythe grins over at Zitto and winks once.

You think to yourself: * continued muted pastel concern * ... why is she still so ...

You think to yourself: ... sad ...?
Faythe whispers something quietly to Elexia.

Elexia's eyebrows raise, and her pointed ear closest to Faythe twitches as she leans closer.

Among the sparkling motes of light, a translucent figure appears in the air and then quickly solidifies as Taemira comes into view.

Midnight shadows coalesce around a new day, and Mother Night embraces the land in utter darkness.
It is now the 23rd of Avechary, 568 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 13 days until the New Moon

Olikai Clawheart drops Duethielle's braid and shakes herself, such that her fur stands on end for a brief moment before falling again into soft, luxurious strands. "Oh yes, I do. Comes from having lived with my pack up in the mountains, I suppose." Her brown eyes fall upon Duethielle. Gently, she draws the elfen back to her. Duethielle makes no resistance, simply letting go of your hand. The loboshigaru wraps her arms loosely around her wife.

Elexia regards Taemira with a smile filled with warmth and affection. "Daughter-dear," she calls to her, waving a hand in merry greetings from where she hovers near Faythe and Lief.

You have emoted: Gurashi reluctantly lets their own hand drop from Duethielle Ladrennbenn's frowning. "You are from the mountains," They comment, looking at Olikai Clawheart again. "How did you two meet?"

Lief's arm is looped through Zitto's own. She smiles at Taemira in greetings before looking to Olikai Clawheart. Dragonfly wings fan out behind her as she says brightly in agreement, "I think the winter is lovely, too. It can be so quiet and still here, like a blanket upon the land."

Duethielle Ladrennbenn blinks at you vaguely from Olikai's arms, making no effort to dry her tears. She is smiling, despite her weeping. Her clear blue eyes remain fixed on you.

Zitto perks up slightly at the question, his attention once again settling on Olikai and Duethielle.

Taemira flutters up to join Elexia, Lief, and Faythe almost as soon as arrives, her sea-green eyes practically gleaming with joy. She hugs Elexia tightly as she speaks, "Hello mother, it is so good to see you."

Olikai Clawheart says, "I met her dancing in the forest. Singing, actually, under Mother Moon." Her liquid brown eyes grow dreamy. "She was so beautfiul: white hair, olive skin, the tattoos as if they were alive... I thought she was a spirit at first."

Lief's eyes drift close to Olikai Clawheart's description, quiet in her contemplation before they flutter open again with a smile for the couple.

Elexia returns Taemira's warm embrace, holding the other faeling close and reaching up a hand to affecionately stroke her chestnut hair. "It is good to see you too, dear," she whispers in turn, her smile bright. She then listens intently to Olikai Clawheart, her violet eyes closing as if to picture the scene.

You have emoted: Gurashi offers the kerchief to Olikai Clawheart, sighing deeply at the recollection. "That is funny - is how I met her too! The dancing, part." They look back at the elfen, placing a hand on their hip, the other plucking a single string of their mandolin. "In New Celest - at the big party they had."

You face lights up as you smile brightly at Duethielle Ladrennbenn.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn hums softly to herself.

Bright and clear, you say to Olikai Clawheart, "That is a precious memory, it is. Gosh."

Bright and clear, you say to Olikai Clawheart, "Yours - mean."

Lief leans into Zitto's side, dotingly pecking him on the cheek.

Olikai Clawheart says, "I walked into the meadow, and she did not disappear. Not like the spirits I was used to chasing." She turns her gaze to Duethielle, watching her blue eyes, dabbing with the kerchief lightly on the elfen's cheek. "She stopped and laughed, embarrassed. I told her I would like to see her dance some more. But she said she would only accept if I-."

You tilt your head and listen intently to Olikai Clawheart.

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

You think to yourself: *continued washes of concern...*.

You think to yourself: ... do not cry for me ...

You think to yourself: ... why is crying ...? * worry *.

"Played music for me..." Duethielle Ladrennbenn continues, staring still at you, as if asking you. "I loved your music..." She smiles again, wide, without hint of sadness now.

Zitto at last allows himself a smile, though he continues now and then to peek at your scarred cheek.

A soft smile of recognition rises to Elexia's face.

Lief's eyes dart curiously from Duethielle Ladrennbenn to Olikai Clawheart, to you, then back to Olikai Clawheart. "You play music?"

Letting go of Duethielle, Olikai Clawheart says to Lief, "Psshhh. The lute, off and on. Nothing to be proud of. I only obliged because I wanted to hear her sing again, and dance. I'm not very good at it to be honest."

You have emoted: Gurashi's eyes dart from Olikai Clawheart to Duethielle Ladrennbenn as either speak. "Ah - you may be biggest fan of musics in all of Basins, bet." They say encouragingly to the elfen before looking up at Olikai Clawheart again. "Oh? Heckity, Miss Olikai, you are probably not giving yourself enough credits."

Elexia smiles gently, chiming, "I am in agreement with Gurashi! Certainly, it sounds like your music was very pleasing indeed to dear Duethielle." Her lips twitch upwards in a smile.

"It is usually that way," Lief nods her antlered head in agreement to you.

Zitto murmurs, "There was no way you were going to get away with that kind of self-deprecation with this crowd. Gods know I've tried."

You have emoted: Gurashi plucks another string of their mandolin, then strums a pleasing chord, sighing gently.

You cough softly.

Her violet eyes alight with mischief, Elexia's flashes Zitto a pixie-like grin.

"Play..." Duethielle Ladrennbenn says suddenly, clasping her hands together, still staring at you fixedly with her blue eyes, which glimmer softly in the morning light.

"To be fair, your limericks are something else," Lief points out to Zitto, squeezing his arm.

Elexia conceals a grin beneath her hand as she glances over at Zitto and Lief.

Grinning toothily, Olikai Clawheart says, "You had better comply, Gurashi. She was stubborn even before..." Her voice trails off. "Before I had my acccident..."

Faythe murmurs to Zitto, "They don't allow you to wiggle out of anything if they think you have a talent for it." She flushes, grinning to herself sheepishly.

You gaze softens as you smile.

Zitto murmurs back to Faythe, "No they don't, Minister," before flashing her another grin.

Lief smiles a smile that lingers for Zitto alone, and then she shifts her attention toward you, excitement flickering in her eyes, in sunflower yellows and pale sky blues.

Faythe flushes even redder if possible, studiously avoiding looking at Zitto and Elexia, her gaze turning to you, Duethielle Ladrennbenn and Olikai Clawheart.

You have emoted: Gurashi lets their gaze drift back to Duethielle Ladrennbenn as the elfen makes her request. The human stands there for a moment, then adjusts their stance, holding their instrument proper and beginning to pluck away, a light-hearted melody springing forth.

Elexia closes her violet eyes, swaying gently in the air near Taemira and Faythe as the notes begin to ring through the air.

Taemira simply remains silent as she listens in rapt fascination.

Lief perks up, then leans toward Zitto, whispering something to him.

You think to yourself: *seeping warm color - what to play what to... ah - light, warm, uplifting--*.

Birds fill your ears with serenades of happiness and love.

Zitto smiles at Lief and extends his arms expectantly.

Lief disentangles herself from Zitto just enough to place her hands on him, one taking up his hand. "It's been a long time since I've danced anything formally," she whispers sheepishly to him, but she wears an irrepressible smile on her lips.

Elexia opens one of her violet eyes, sneaking a peek at Zitto and Lief. A pleased smile comes to her lips, before she closes her eyes again and continues her gentle swaying to the sound.

Ula arrives from the west.

Ula blinks.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn breaks in to a wide smile, clapping her hands together. Her blue eyes meet each of you as she twirls in a circle, then takes Olikai's hands, sweeping the loboshigaru up in dance. Leading, she and her ghostly partner prance in a smooth arc about you, their steps matching the rhythm of the bright melody. As she passes you, Duethielle's long braid lightly brushes your calves as it sways.

You have emoted: Gurashi continues to play, lifting their gaze upward the brightening sky before letting it fall again on Olikai Clawheart, then Duethielle Ladrennbenn, watching them both as they continue to play. The notes are uplifting, the melody upbeat. They begin to tap their foot, looking at the others gathered in the clearing and waggling their eyebrows encouragingly.

Following Duet's lead, wide eyed, Olikai Clawheart exclaims, "Oh...! I'm not good at... dancing!"

You think to yourself: Dance you eggies.

You grin mischievously at Olikai Clawheart.

Zitto moves in time with the your melody, happily swaying and turning with lief as the music goes on.

Bobbing their head as they play, you sing, "Do not HAVE to be good - is the best part!"

Faythe lifts her hands, clapping in time to your music as she slowly smiles, watching the others dance or sway in place.

Lief laughs over at Olikai Clawheart as she sweeps about with Zitto, her bare feet gliding easily over the grass and fallen birch tree debris here. Her laughter continues, merry, even as she returns her gaze to Zitto.

Bizirik, the leothin stares implacably at Lief.

Bizirik, the leothin stares implacably at Zitto.

Bizirik, the leothin snorts, tail slapping the ground as it watches the goings-on from a safe, not-dancing distance.

Elexia's pointed ears twitch, and she looks to Taemira curiously. "Have you had much time to dance, dear?" she whispers to her. "A common tradition amongst Shelterfolk, and we singers of spirits!" She extends a hand to her daughter, smiling brightly.

You hum softly to yourself.

Wodewose Faythe whispers to Elexia, "Do you have your violin on you?"

Elexia looks at Faythe and comprehension flashes across her face.

Elexia nods her head enthusiastically at Faythe.

Faythe holds her hands out to Elexia.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn lifts her voice to sing as she dances, and her melody is wordless, blending in harmony with Gurashi's playing. Her clear blue eyes lift to the skies, matching the expanse in hue. The elfen's voice lifts over the trees, echoing across the canopy, singing of love, and joy that only grows and grows and grows.

Taemira looks up at Elexia and shakes her head, "I have not, mother. Though, it seems I best learn if I'm ever to learn to play!"

Across the Serenwilde forest, the sound of mandolin and song echoes, rising as joy in the heart.

Elexia's eyebrows raise curiously at first, but then joy spreads across her features and she nods her head in earnest.

Flitting over to pass it to her, Elexia gives a rose-vine violin to Wodewose Faythe.

Faythe begins to wield a rose-vine violin in her left hand.

Zitto beams at Lief as he continues to dance with her. "Come on!" he cheers at the others as the music goes on.

You think to yourself: *swelling color, swelling joy - washes of pink, gold, pastels - happy*.

"It is not so difficult, my dear! Come, come!" Elexia enthuses to Taemira, laughing lightly as she takes the other faeling's hand and begins to twirl her about.

Rather than dancing, Faythe instead picks up bow and nestles a rose-vine violin beneath her chin. Her fingers slowly wrap around it, and she applies the bow. After a moment's hesitation, perhaps remembering a skill long disused, she begins to play a simple, sprightly accompaniment to your tune. She smiles, her eyes glimmering as she moves carefully across the clearing with the music singing forth from the instrument, taking up a position opposite you.

Olikai Clawheart surrenders herself to the music, her fingers laced with Duethielle's lightly as they twirl, together and yet apart. Her own brown eyes drown in gleaming tears as she remembers.

You have emoted: Gurashi shuts their eyes and breathes in deeply, continuing to play effortlessly, smiling from ear to ear as they sense Olikai Clawheart and Duethielle Ladrennbenn dance about them. They listen to the conversations of others, the encouragement to participate in this blissful moment.

Lief lifts Zitto's hand overhead at one turn, her toes digging into the earth, pivoting herself into a little twirl underneath his hand with a laugh. Her wings flare out for balance as she draws back forward to resume the merry dance, surrounded by the sounds of echoing joy weaving through the branches of the Forest, emanating from right here, the music's heart.

You think to yourself: ... * love * ...

You think to yourself: * the feeling grows, and grows - adoration, joy, relief-- *.

Taemira cries out in jubilant laughter as Elexia takes her hand and begins to spin about. The faeling girl casts her eyes over all gathered as she is swept up in the music and bounces softly in time with the song.

You have emoted: Gurashi opens their eyes again, gazing skyward, swaying in their spot as their fingers pluck away, then looking towards Faythe, smiling at the other elfen as she begins her stringed harmony.

Ula gives an ivory bluebell flower to Regent Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon.

You have emoted: Tears begin to slide down Gurashi's cheeks as watch those gathered, though there is nothing miserable about their stance or expression.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn stops suddenly, with Olikai colliding into her, arms twisted. The elfen walks up to you, dragging Olikai with her. Firmly, she says to you over the sound of Faythe's violin. "Gurashi, you must dance!" She reaches a hand out towards you and nods her head once, causing her long, white braid to sway, its little blue bow touching her ankles.

You blink.

Zitto's wing begin to whir, and suddenly he is airborne, continuing to turn with Lief as he bobs happily through the air.

Olikai Clawheart gasps and tries to untwist her arms, her floating, ghostly nature making it slightly easier, though ultimately she lets go of Duethielle and massages her wrist as if in pain.

Elexia skips gleefully along with Taemira, a peal of joyous laughter leaving her lips as she moves with effortless, rhythmic movements, enraptured by the song hanging in the air. "Yes, Gurashi, you must! Let Faythe take the music for now!" she calls out. She flashes Faythe a bright smile, pride in her eyes. Then, she returns her attention to Taemira, taking the other faeling's hand and lifting it high above to spin her about.

Lief follows Zitto up with a giggle in joy. Her feet are, strangely enough, much more certain in the air as she sways and whirls about with her betrothed, her humming wings, just like a dragonfly's, shifting her through her motions with graceful precision.

You have emoted: Gurashi blinks again, continuing to play even as Duethielle Ladrennbenn offers her hand. "Oh! B-but," They look at Olikai Clawheart in surprise, whinging at the sight of the familiar, albeit unintentional twisting of the loboshigaru's limbs. "A-are you sure?" They ask, eyes wide.

Faythe smiles warmly at you, her gaze darting to look at the others gathered as she continues to play. Her fingers flutter over the strings, moving with careful flicks as she switches through the notes of the melody and she draws the bow down sweetly. She taps her foot, the tune changing and bouncing and skipping, as though it danced a jig.

Nodding at Gurashi, Olikai Clawheart says, "Oh go ahead. I need to..." she massages her wrist and winces, grinning, "See to this for a bit. Have fun with Duet."

Duethielle Ladrennbenn gazes fixedly at you, her hands outstretched as she stands before you.

You have emoted: Gurashi frowns at Olikai Clawheart, unable to mask their concern as they reluctantly bring their melody to an end. They nod gratefully to Faythe, then turn back to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, smiling warmly. They bow deeply and with surprising grace before Duethielle Ladrennbenn before taking both of her hands in either of theirs, grinning. "After you, Miss Duet!" They chime.

Taemira cries out as she is suddenly twirled about, though she falls to a stunned silence when she manages to stop herself without so much as a wobble. Immediately she turns to face everyone with pure excitement wrought upon her tiny features, "I didn't fall!" She darts back towards Elexia, taking up her hands to join once more in the merry dance with friends and loved ones.

Zitto suddenly pulls Lief close, letting go of her hand to wrap his arms about her. "How I adore you," he tells her as the two slowly float back down towards the ground.

You think to yourself: *a cheerful flood of color - a rush of joy as their hands slip into Duethielle's*.

Birds fill your ears with serenades of happiness and love.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn takes your hands. Her expression is dreamy as she begins to move in rhythm with you. Her fingers grip lightly, and her steps are equally light with the melody. No longer singing, the elfen merely hums, the tune only loud enough for you to hear.

As her arms fold tightly about Zitto in answer, Lief's wings stutter in their hum until she has alighted gently upon the ground, one foot, and then the other. She lingers there in his embrace, eyes closed, content to breathe the sweet fragrance about her and listen to the music. When she draws back, she studies Zitto's eyes, her own brimming with affection and adoration in kind. "How I love you," she whispers to him.

Faythe closes her eyes, her booted toe still tapping in time to the beat of the melody she plays. The end of her ponytail sways with her movements, and she smiles to herself as the others dance and flit about her in the center of the clearing.

Jolanthe enters from the west, emanating an aura of immense power.

Though it is summer, you feel almost transported by her humming onto the cold of the ice, the mist of breath rising into the chill air, Duethielle's arms gripped about you.

Jolanthe curtseys gracefully.

Elexia beams proudly at Taemira, nodding her head in earnest agreement as she chimes, "Graceful as Brother Hart, my dear!" A hum bubbles in her throat to Faythe's song as she leads Taemira along. Then, in a swift motion, she hops into the air, her butterfly wings fluttering in sable bursts to carry her aloft. There she continues to twirl, now adding in darts and flips. "Jolanthe!" she calls to Jolanthe, waving merrily from the air.

You have emoted: Gurashi's attention is quickly captured fully by the elfen, smiling down at Duethielle Ladrennbenn fondly as they carefully guide her about the clearing in a slow dance. Their eyes widen, lip twitching as they gently twirl the both of them in a slow, sweeping circle, watching closely now.

Olikai Clawheart floats to the edge of the clearing, taking a seat by the shelf where Binky had enshrined Aschwar's painting. Her head bobs to the music as she massages her wrist, then laughs and shakes her head.

You think to yourself: *a creeping wash of cerulean - cold - why so...*.

Faythe opens her eyes at Elexia's voice, and turns and grins at Jolanthe from where she stands, violin resting against her chin and hands as she plays still onward. Softly, as her gaze roves around the clearing, taking in the slowing movements of the dancers, she adjusts her tune. Faintly, echoes of 'Winter's Etude' rise from the instrument in her hands.

You think to yourself: *a recollection of snowflakes, shining ice...*.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn dances with you as if skating, her braid swaying behind her. Her humming remains directed at you as she glides, graceful as a bird under the light of Mother Moon. From the side, Olikai watches, her liquid brown eyes reminiscing a winter's night in a meadow long ago.

You gaze softens as you smile at Duethielle Ladrennbenn.

Ula steps into the room, and immediately hides behind Elexia - not that it does her much good.

Without hesitation, Taemira takes off after Elexia, vibrant hues coruscating across her otherwise pale wings as she gives chase, seeking to emulate Elexia. For once her flight is strong and sure, even able to give a wave to Jolanthe as she passes by. "Hello! Nice to meet you!"

You almost feel the sliding of the skates beneath your feet, the roughness of the cut ice where others had gone before. The coolness of the air touching your carapace.

Lief's ears twitch to Faythe's music, and she draws back from Zitto with a grin. She unslings a viola of summer storms and picks it up, listening to Faythe's place in the song, and then picking up a lower harmony, one that bolsters the violin and helps it to shine.

You have emoted: Gurashi follows Duethielle Ladrennbenn's steps with their own, their own gray-blue eyes locked onto the elfen's. Their smile never falters as they move almost as if following some instinct, sweeping in another loosely 'skated' circle, joining in on her melody with a deep harmonizing hum of their own.

You think to yourself: * pastel swirls of color - happy *.

A long, sweet note sweeps forth from the violin as the song is begun, Faythe drawing it out as long as she can. Then, with a playful wink at Lief, she takes off on the high notes, sliding across the strings, gathering strength. The melody turns, still sweet, but more playful, skipping notes that flutter ever downward.

Ula gives Bizirik, the leothin the once-over, eyeing her suspiciously.
With utter indifference, Bizirik, the leothin cranes its head back, grooming and scratching at its ears with its smaller set of secondary paws before returning to its usual stillness.

Invigorating yellows and bold blues arc and spin in a dizzying display across the expanse of Elexia's sable wings as she spins a quick circle about Taemira. "Hello hello!" she calls down to Ula from above. She blinks for a moment, considering Ula with a slight cant of her head. "You're a trill, now, I see!" she recognizes. "Do you dance? It's a fine time for it!" She winks at Faythe and her violin again.

Light spreads across your back in numerous colours and hues, enfolding you like butterfly wings.

Ula blinks.

Ula shakes her head at Elexia.

Zitto takes a seat as he watches the others dance and play. With a dreamy smile on his face, his gaze finally comes to rest on Lief, where it lingers for some time.

Taemira cries out to Ula, "I said the same thing, but I doubt she will take no for an answer!"

Ula's wings shiver, pulling closer to her body as though to hide.

Elexia giggles lightly to Taemira as she says, "Oh, but you did wonderfully, dear!" She flutters down to offer a hand to Ula, asking, "Are you so very *certain* you won't join Taemira and I? You might find you rather like it!"

Her eyes closing, Lief plays low beneath Faythe's downward tumble, a viola of summer storms's music mellifluous in its steady support, like an evergreen rising into the chill gasp of wintry night. At a point, the harmony merges with the melody, and the faeling allows Faythe to guide just how it dances next. Briefly, her lashes flutter open, and her gaze finds Zitto, where she smiles.

Ula shakes her head.

Elexia smiles gently, and she dips her head in understanding to Ula. "Then pray, just relax and enjoy the music! It is a treat to hear such skilled musicians!" She glances fondly at both Lief and Faythe.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn finally stops the dance, her breath catching in her throat, twirling still for a moment more with you. Her clear blue eyes glitter with joy. "Thank you for the dance..." she mumurs. She leans in and places another kiss lightly on your cheek, where the crescent scar is. "You were hurt, scared, in the dark," she declares. "I know you will be okay..." She and you stand in the middle of the meadow, still despite the music.

Ula gives Elexia a shy nod, shuffling over to stand next to a tree on the opposite side of Bizirik, the leothin.

You have emoted: Gurashi lets out a little noise as they are abruptly stopped with Duethielle Ladrennbenn's motion, looking down at the elfen in surprise. Before they can speak, she kisses their cheek and speaks again, leaving them speechless, lips parted slightly.

Sweat gathers on Faythe's brow as she flicks through the fingering of the notes, turns her concentration inward as the piece demands more from her and her memory. She closes her eyes, the violin straining as it surges back upward to the highest note, buoyed by Lief's accompaniment below. At the very peak, the notes tremble, like an intake of air into the lungs, held tight in anticipation.

Bizirik's head begins to droop. It opens its great maw and curls back its lips to allow its forked tongue to unfurl as it yawns before snapping its mouth shut.

Ula gives Bizirik, the leothin the once-over, eyeing her suspiciously.
With utter indifference, Bizirik, the leothin cranes its head back, grooming and scratching at its ears with its smaller set of secondary paws before returning to its usual stillness.

You have emoted: Eyes shining with tears, Gurashi begins to smile again, though fainter than before as they squeeze Duethielle Ladrennbenn's hands in their own as they stare adoringly back at her. "Am thinking so too. Thank you."

Duethielle Ladrennbenn lets go of your hand, her smile dreamy, and returns to Olikai. The loboshigaru stands, and they lace fingers. Olikai presses her translucent lips to Duethielle's forehead, and they stand there, lost in each other in the swell of the ongoing music.

Bizirik, the leothin snorts, giving Ula a look as it is given the once-over.

You have emoted: Gurashi's own arms fall back to their instrument, though they do not play, watching Duethielle Ladrennbenn as she drifts back over to her wife, still smiling.

Lief's eyes shift to Faythe, a little grin upon her lips as she chases after her sister's playing. By the way she slows her playing, allowing her longer notes to linger and slide, she is clearly improvising at this point to any trained musician's ear - but she's not bad at it. Her eyes close once more, and she hums, finding the fuller-sounding harmony in her throat as well.

Clapping a hand over her mouth, Ula's expression briefly turns horrified as Bizirik, the leothin looks at her. Her feathers puff up in response even as her wings pull even closer.

You sense the piercing eyes of Tridemon looking upon you.

You think to yourself: *swirling waves of pink, magenta, gold - suddenly, a familiar sensation - scried - the colors only grow brighter, hopeful*.

Streaks of violet light snake across the morning sky, colouring it a deep purple.

You have emoted: Gurashi squeezes their instrument, then finds the strings again, rejoining the other musicians as they play for one another joyously, heaving a great sigh.

You think to yourself: * is Tridemon ...! *.

Your melodic voice sings into Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters's mind, "*a sudden burst of bright, pastel colors - pinks and magenta, purple, gold*."

Your melodic voice sings into Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters's mind, "*echoing across the aethers* Tridemon??"

The melodious voice of Tridemon resonates in your mind, "Nope, Tridemon's ghost. Boo."

Your melodic voice sings into Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters's mind, "*continued whirling colors, bright and cheerful* A ghost? You are not a ghost - there is a ghost here! Well - not a ghost - she is real!"

Your melodic voice sings into Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters's mind, "You are not like her are you?? Did you get stuck beyond the Veil??"

Faythe opens her eyes and smiles softly at Lief. Slowly, slowly, she brings the trembling note in a gentle spiral down. The high pitched sweetness fades to softer, gentler notes, like flakes of snow that flutter gently to the earth. As she moves lower and lower through the piece, her eyes brighten with emotion, her gaze now lost to some distant memory of the past. Eventually, she draws it to a close, the last note drawn out. She then lifts her bow, gently allowing the music to fade into silence.

Ula, Psalmist of the Treesongs whispers, "Oh gods, it changes -color-."

Bizirik, the leothin strikes a pose.

Bizirik, the leothin promptly sits back down after striking its pose, snorting again at Ula.

Ula lets out a horrified shriek, muffled by her hands as she leans away from the leothin.

You glance askance.

As the music fades, Elexia takes Taemira's hand and gently leads the other faeling down to the earth below. As they touch down, she nods with approval, saying, "I think you have shown that you can dance quite well after all." A playful grin dances upon her lips as she releases Taemira's hand. She looks to Ula with alarm, reaching out both hands in a soothing gesture. "Oh, dear, don't worry, it's alright... Just a friend of Gurashi's!"

You have emoted: Gurashi clicks their tongue against their teeth as they hear the fuss brewing near the leothin. The creature abruptly looks over at Gurashi, then chatters and slinks towards the human, thrumming pleasantly.

Lief's bow follows the sweetly drifting notes, her viola's lower sounds drawing out, easing into the end of the duet. As the higher notes drift off, the lower linger, reverberating through the summery trees for a breath or two longer. She flashes Faythe a grin and bows with a flourish of her bow toward the other musician.

Ula, Psalmist of the Treesongs whispers to Elexia, "It has very sharp teeth."

The melodious voice of Tridemon resonates in your mind, "Nah, I just starved to death. ... Okay not really, I am alive."

Lysandus dances down a moonbeam and alights gently on the ground.

Bizirik, the leothin grins as if on cue, before leaning against Gurashi, causing the human to stumble lightly in their spot.

Taemira laughs if delight, her face covered in wild strands of chestnut hair due to sweating from the frivolity, "Oh mother, that was a delight, and ef! Faythe you two played oh so wonderfully well together!"

Lysandus presses his left fist against his right palm over his chest and bows.

You hear a rustling and turn to see Xiran emerging from the undergrowth.

Olikai Clawheart draws away from Duethielle Ladrennbenn. She bows low, bending at the waist, her long, luxurious ears sway by her cheeks. "Thank you, everyone, for visiting us. Especially you, Gurashi." Her brown eyes fall gratefully upon you. "Maybe between you and I, and her friends, Duet will one day return fully in mind, as I hope to in body." Her voice breaks. Duethielle takes her hand again.

Zitto applauds the musicians from his seat as the song comes to its end.

Taemira yawns suddenly and mightily.

You gaze softens as you smile.

Elexia smiles gently to Ula, assuring the trill, "Many creatures have sharp teeth, my dear, but are still quite friendly!" She smiles brightly to Lysandus and Xiran, waving a merry greetings from where she stands upon the ground by Taemira and Ula. Then, she swivels to Olikai Clawheart and Duethielle Ladrennbenn, a soft smile on her lips. "I hope that day will come soon," she says.

Ula swoons slightly as Bizirik, the leothin grins, trying to hide behind Elexia again.

Lief flashes Zitto a broad smile as she straightens. After tucking a viola of summer storms away once more, she dances to where Zitto sits, settling into an easy, lazy half-kneel at his side.

Lief ceases to wield a viola of summer storms in her left hand.

Panting slightly, out of breath, Faythe lowers the violin in her hands and smiles as she returns Lief's bow. She is silent, straightening once more as her gaze flickers through those that have now grown still. She lifts an arm to her forehead, wiping the sweat that has gathered there from her playing.

You have emoted: Gurashi idly strokes the top of Bizirik, the leothin's head as they look over at Olikai Clawheart. "I am so happy to finally meet you, Miss Olikai. You seem very goodly, and nice. And, Miss Duethielle loves you so much - can tell, can tell." They smile, bunching their shoulders. "Do not worry. We will care for her, yes." A nod. "And you."

Waving around a plain white letter, you say, "Call upon me any time, O-K? I will come with my leggies running."

Comprehension flashes across Elexia's face.

Elexia begins to wield a silver-edged kite shield in her right hand.

"When the Moon rises high above, spirits come out to dance." sings Elexia, as ancient harmonies rise from a rose-vine violin.

Ula creases her brow in a frown.

"Ghostly shapes ducking and weaving, I find myself entranced." sings Elexia, as a silvery mist rises up from a rose-vine violin.

Olikai Clawheart nods her head emphatically.

Before Olikai and Duethielle, Xiran L'Eternae says, "Moon's blessings."

With a dip of her head, Regent Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon says, "Moon's Blessings! I must go and investigate the disturbance upon the Ethereal... Be safe!"

Your melodic voice sings into Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters's mind, "*a din of color, so vibrant and happy it is almost loud*."

Your melodic voice sings into Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters's mind, "You are here, though, now - for real...?"

The melodious voice of Tridemon resonates in your mind, "Mmhmm."

Elexia gives Taemira a peck on the cheek.

Elexia holds the Flame of dae'Seren aloft and an emerald light shines forth, revealing a hazy hallway of ancient trees. As Elexia walks through the hallway, the trees close around her and disappear.

You gaze softens as you smile at Olikai Clawheart.

Gently, you say to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "Thank you for inviting me. And for the dance."

Ula gives Bizirik, the leothin the once-over, eyeing her suspiciously.
With utter indifference, Bizirik, the leothin cranes its head back, grooming and scratching at its ears with its smaller set of secondary paws before returning to its usual stillness.

Bizirik, the leothin grins mischievously at Ula.

Lief watches you, Duethielle Ladrennbenn, and Olikai Clawheart, a little hum in her throat reminiscent of the song just played.

Bizirik, the leothin tosses its head and lets out a sharp sound akin to a bark, then looks up at Gurashi, awaiting more pets.

Her gaze gleaming with curious insight, Nialla enters from the west amid a swirl of colours.

Suddenly, Duethielle Ladrennbenn says, "I will write more letters... You will come again... Please?"

Zitto moves from sitting to kneeling, wrapping an arm around Lief's shoulder and leaning against her.

Nodding several times, you say to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "I will come whenever you ask me, yes I will."

You have emoted: Gurashi plucks a few cheerful cheery on their mandolin, grinning at the elfen.

Olikai Clawheart squeezes Duethielle's hand, finding her voice again. "And we'll tell Binky and Miaei when they return from visiting their families."

Tears sprout in Ula's eyes and she sniffles, shuffling further away from Bizirik, the leothin, practically hiding behind the tree now.

Bizirik, the leothin leans on you seeking consolation.

You pet Bizirik, the leothin ingratiatingly.
Perking up, Bizirik, the leothin begins to chitter and thrum, its tail sweeping back and forth across the ground. It cranes its neck to gently headbutt your side contentedly.

Lief settles comfortably into Zitto's side, her gaze shifting to him, a fond smile tugging at her lips.

Faythe tucks one of her now-empty hands into her pocket, the other toying with the end of her ponytail as she tugs on it lightly.

Nialla coughs violently, expelling a speck of grey phlegm that hits Elexia in the face. <-- heckity what

Opening her mouth wide, Faythe gapes in wonder at Nialla.

Lief blinks incredulously at Nialla.

Wodewose Faythe says, "Nialla."

Wodewose Faythe says, "Get to the archway - Elexia - go go."

Comprehension flashes across Elexia's face.

Elexia nods her head enthusiastically.

Surrounded by a wild fragrance, Elexia departs to the west, colourful, ghostly blooms following her footsteps.

Carrying a swirl of colours with her, Nialla leaves to the west, her gaze gleaming with curious insight.

Faythe stares with wide eyes after the pair.

Ula, Psalmist of the Treesongs whispers, "Um...?"

Wodewose Faythe says, "The plague."

Suddenly, you ask Olikai Clawheart, "Oh - would you like a me-cookie?"

Eyes wide, Wodewose Faythe says to Elexia, "Better?"

Elexia smiles softly at Faythe.

Olikai Clawheart blinks.

You have emoted: Gurashi waves about a kephera-shaped cinnamon cookie, smiling.

Spirit Guard Lysandus says, "Who ever attacked left immediately."

Tucking a lock of sable hair behind a pointed ear, Regent Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon says to Faythe, "And thankfully, no fae harmed upon the Ethereal, either. It may have been a mistake..."

Suddenly looking embarrassed, you say to Olikai Clawheart, ".... can... you eat."

Arm slowly dropping, you say to Olikai Clawheart, "Do see-through here-there peoples eat ...."

Ula, Psalmist of the Treesongs whispers to you, "A-are you... Gurashi??"

Your cookie seems to stir a memory in Lief - she reaches into the sash of her serene kimono robes bearing fruitful apple branches to pull something out and offer it to Zitto's free hand. "It's very good," she smiles.

Comprehension flashes across Elexia's face.

Faythe nods and sighs at Elexia in some relief, her gaze returning to you and Olikai Clawheart as she tugs at the end of her hair still.

Smiling as she offers it over, Lief gives an iridescent peacock cookie to Zitto Shevat.

<-- Nialla back

Nialla Mes'ard, Midsummer Herald says, "Ahem, horribly sorry about that."

Dipping her head as she whispers, Regent Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon says, "I'll be right back."

Surrounded by a wild fragrance, Elexia departs to the west, colourful, ghostly blooms following her footsteps.

You glance askance at Ula.

Spirit Guard Lysandus says to you, "I don't think they can."

You nod your head at Ula.

You tilt your head curiously at Lysandus.

Laughing, Olikai Clawheart says to you, "I'm not entirely sure. The spirits of the Host certainly don't eat. And I haven't eaten in many years. But I don't know if I CAN eat. No one's offered me anything."

Blushing bright red, you say, "Well."

Nodding, you give a kephera-shaped cinnamon cookie to Olikai Clawheart.

Quietly, Ula, Psalmist of the Treesongs says to you, "Your friend is mean."

Zitto cannot help himself, enthusiastically murmuring, "Science!"

Ula points accusingly at Bizirik, the leothin.
With utter indifference, Bizirik, the leothin cranes its head back, grooming and scratching at its ears with its smaller set of secondary paws before returning to its usual stillness.

Jolanthe Myeras says, "Suppose this is one way to find out."

Leaning in to whisper, you ask Olikai Clawheart, "I have seen a woman made of kelp eat a cookie. Maybe will be miracle?"

You glance askance.

Lief's eyes twinkle enchantingly at Zitto.

You have emoted: Gurashi offers a second cookie to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, smiling.

Bizirik, the leothin looks at Ula again, tail slapping the ground as it stares and snorts.

Nialla grins mischievously at Zitto.

Olikai Clawheart picks up the cinnamon cookie and bites into it. For a brief moment, the crumbling biscuit appears through her translucent lips. Then it disappears, presumably chewed and swallowed.

Your melodic voice sings into Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters's mind, "... will you be around muchly? Can I see you soonly?"

Your melodic voice sings into Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters's mind, "*silvery anticipation, hope - distinctly distracted - it feels -cold-, but not unpleasantly so*."

The melodious voice of Tridemon resonates in your mind, "I'll probably be about for awhile yet."

Lysandus's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Zitto whispers to Lief, "Thank you, dear," before examining his own cookie. It does not take him long decide to make short work of it.

Jolanthe looks about herself, rubbing her chin thoughtfully.

You face lights up as you smile brightly at Olikai Clawheart.

Nodding gratefully as she removes the kepheran's head, Olikai Clawheart says, "Oh, it's good."

Nialla claps her hands together merrily.

Hopefully, you ask Olikai Clawheart, "...you can taste it?"

Olikai Clawheart says, "Oh yes! Cinnamon! Fancy remember how that still tasted."

Lysandus smiles softly at Olikai Clawheart.

You giggle happily.

A soft smile spreads across Elexia's lips as she dips her head in a nod.

Counting cookies they have on hand, you ask, "...d-does anyone else want one?"

Bright and clear, you say, "I have enough? I have enough!"

Jolanthe Myeras laughingly says, "Okay."

Elexia raises a hand hopefully, chiming, "I would love to sample one! Your cooking is always exceptional, friend."

Smiling softly, Nialla Mes'ard, Midsummer Herald says, "Oh, I would love one."

Laughing a bit, Lief turns her attention to you, holding out her hand.

Zitto raises his hand. "One can never have enough cookies!" he announces.

Elexia nods her head sagely at Zitto.

Nialla nods agreement with Zitto.

Humming, you give a kephera-shaped cinnamon cookie to Regent Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon.

Ula is now fully hidden behind a tree.

Lysandus shakes his head and smiles, "I'm afraid I must pass on the cookies, thank you for the offer though."

Humming, you give a kephera-shaped cinnamon cookie to Jolanthe Myeras.

Humming, you give a kephera-shaped cinnamon cookie to Nialla Mes'ard, Midsummer Herald.

Humming, you give a kephera-shaped cinnamon cookie to Zitto Shevat.

Nialla flashes you a joyous smile.

Zitto Shevat says to you, "Thank you very much."

Spirit Guard Lysandus says to Olikai Clawheart, "How are you friend Olikai? It's been awhile since we've last met."

Holding the kepheran cookie up beside their human head, you say, "It is a striking resemblance, yes."

Elexia accepts a kephera-shaped cinnamon cookie with a grateful nod of her head, immediately putting the confection up to her nose to enjoy its biting cinannamon scent.

Wodewose Faythe says, "I would love a cookie."

Bizirik, the leothin continues to stare at Ula in the trees, tail slapping the ground.

Lief wiggles her fingers hopefully, her hand still held out.

Humming, you give a kephera-shaped cinnamon cookie to Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon.

Faythe mimics the motion, wiggling her fingers.

Humming, you give a kephera-shaped cinnamon cookie to Wodewose Faythe.

Lief beams broadly at you.

Faythe hums a happy tune.

Warmly as she settles back into Zitto's side, holding a kephera-shaped cinnamon cookie with both her hands, Lief says to you, "Thank you."

Lief puts her nose over a kephera-shaped cinnamon cookie and inhales.

Wiping their cinnamon-stained fingers on their pants, you say, "I am glad to know here-there peoples can still enjoy food! If you have a favorite, Miss Olikai - or, even if know Miss Duethielle's favorite - let me know! I will make."

Elexia nibbles on a kephera-shaped cinnamon cookie.

Zitto Shevat says to Lief, "I am reminded of why there was a contest to settle who was the better baker between you two. Gurashi's still got it."

Lief tentatively sticks out her tongue and licks a kephera-shaped cinnamon cookie.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn holds out her hand and wiggles her fingers, imitating Lief and Faythe.

Birds fill your ears with serenades of happiness and love.

You giggle happily.

Unable to help but laugh, you give a kephera-shaped cinnamon cookie to Duethielle Ladrennbenn.

Lief giggles at Duethielle Ladrennbenn, then looks over to Zitto. "I should hope they do. I've officially asked them to bake for our wedding," she says with a grin.

A mischievous look fills Elexia's violet eyes as her lips turn in a pixie's grin.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn smiles dreamily at you, then she immediately bends into a crouch, feeding the cookie to Bizirik.

Bizirik, the leothin gives a short gasp of elation.

Ula blinks.

Nialla consumes a kephera-shaped cinnamon cookie leisurely, seeming to enjoy every bite.

Ula peeks out at Lief. "...wedding?"

Zitto brightens at the news. Half to Lief, half to you, he announces, "I'm so glad to hear it."

Bizirik, the leothin suddenly stops, looking at the cinnamon-flavored cookie with a strange expression. It sniffs the confection a few times, then looks up at Duethielle Ladrennbenn, staring at the elfen before delicately taking the cookie in its jaws and slinking off with it.

Elexia's pointed ears twitch, and she chimes, "Gurashi will be catering? Splendid!" She nods her head in apparent satisfaction at this news.

Lief smiles merrily around her cookie as she works on it. Pausing to swallow, she nods her antlered head toward Ula. "Zitto and I are engaged," she says brightly, motioning with one crumb-covered hand to Zitto's hand bearing an engagement band.

Continuing the hunt for his dark mate, Father Sun presses forward in his journey, lowering himself in the sky yet still casting even, full light upon the land.

Nialla bounces excitedly. "No better person to ask!"

Olikai Clawheart says to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "It's good, you know, Duet. Cinnamon!" She waves the rest of the cookie around. Then she shrugs, glancing at the painting on the shelf nearby. "Then again at least you didn't put it as an offering in front of a painting."

Lysandus watches the scene before him, which was easy given his height.

Xiran beams broadly at Sondayga.

Ula blinks.

Ula, Psalmist of the Treesongs says, "Oh."

Xiran places a forefinger between Sondayga's eyes, and a shimmering light passes through him.

"Hey!" Sondayga greets Xiran warmly.

Ula, Psalmist of the Treesongs says, "Congratulations, I think? I'm... not sure what."

Elexia flashes Sondayga a joyous smile.

Xiran L'Eternae says to Sondayga, "No headaches for you."

Ula coughs softly.

Cheerily, you sing, "I will be caaatering, yes. I am already planning - excited."

Elexia beams broadly at you.

Ula, Psalmist of the Treesongs says, "What engaged means. Or what wedding means."

Ula tilts her head curiously at Lief.

Bizirik, the leothin returns, cookie-less, slinking back over to Gurashi. They rub against the human, then chatter happily up at Duethielle Ladrennbenn, looking grateful. There is strangely no trace of cinnamon or sugar upon their face.

Smiling, Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon says to Ula, "It is when two people who love each other dearly swear to stand by each other's side for the rest of time."

Ula blinks.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn stands, leaning her head against the ghostly form of Olikai, dreamily watching Bizirik with a happy expression.

Elexia folds her hands over her heart at Lief's description, a dreamy sigh leaving her lips.

You gaze softens as you smile.

Expression still confused, Ula, Psalmist of the Treesongs says, "Uh... I see?"

Lysandus chuckles long and heartily.

Spirit Guard Lysandus says to Ula, "You'll know it when you get there lass, you're still young, so you have a lot to learn about life."

Still smiling, Lief motions with a crumb-covered hand to Duethielle Ladrennbenn and Olikai Clawheart. "Duethielle and Olikai are married," she says happily, "and they stood by each other's side even when they couldn't see one another properly."

Ula frowns at Lysandus.

Zitto smiles widely as he listens to the explanation, the turns to plant a quick kiss on Lief's cheek.

Xiran smiles softly.

You think to yourself: * swirling pastels - happy, am happy - grateful to see those about themselves *.

Ula swivels her head to peek at Bizirik, the leothin, attention obviously redirected.

Lief's eyes close briefly, and then they open again to find Zitto. The gray canvases of her irises glimmer with warmth, with flickering reds and pumpkin oranges and daffodil yellows.

Bizirik, the leothin meets Ula's gaze, their own blank and unreadable.

Ula squeaks.

You close your eyes and inhale deeply, absorbing the scent of your surroundings.

The white blanket of cloud in the sky above you thickens into a heavy cover.

Lysandus stares at the sky, "It looks like it's going to rain."

Ula hides behind the tree again, feathers all puffed up.

Bizirik's head begins to droop. It opens its great maw and curls back its lips to allow its forked tongue to unfurl as it yawns before snapping its mouth shut.

You see the following people here:
Faythe, Lief, Sondayga, Jolanthe, Xiran, Lysandus, Zitto, Nialla, Ula, Elexia, Gurashi.

You have emoted: Gurashi lifts their gaze to the sky as well, not bothered at the news. "Maybe." They look back at everyone gathered, shoulders sagging slightly. "...heckity, I did not realize how very many peoples had collected. H-hi, everyone." They wave awkwardly.

Ula sniffles softly.

Lysandus nods his head at you.

Jolanthe hums a happy tune.

Lief laughs and nestles into Zitto's side, offering you a little wave though she's been here all along.

You blush furiously.

Elexia smiles softly, folding her hands in front of her. "Truly, a lovely little gathering..." she says quietly as she dips her head to you.

Bright and clear, you say, "...oh!"

You lay out a spread of your finest cuisine and delicacies before your guests. Enjoying the food yourself, you delight even more at the sight of everyone indulging themselves in this epicurian feast, eating and drinking until utterly satiated. The fine meal not only lifts your spirits, but enhances your body as well.

You strike a pose.
Bizirik, the leothin strikes a pose.

Sondayga's mouth turns up as his face breaks into a smile.

Lysandus's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Bowing to his guests, Sondayga arranges his tea before him upon a totemic tea set. He slowly pours the white tea into individual bowls, delicately whisking the tea until there is a slight foam on top. Spinning and bowing over the bowls in a complex ritual, he finally finishes when a lambent glow infuses the tea. As you sip the glowing tea, the ceremony concludes and you feel the whole experience has enhanced your insight.

You blink.

Bright and clear, you say to Sondayga, "Oh! Teas ...m-many thank yous!"

Clapping, you say, "Perfect!"

Xiran laughs and claps her hands in thanks before you and Sondayga for the fine meal and blessed drink.

Lysandus raises the empty teacup and thanks Sondayga before setting it down.

Ula gives a dragonsnap lily to Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon.

Spirit Guard Lysandus says to you, "Of course, thank you for the meal as well."

Olikai Clawheart nuzzles Duethielle, who has begun to rearrange the shelves in the market. She whispers in her wife's ear, and the elfen turns, smiling back at the murmured words. There is a light touch of fingers, and Duethielle returns to her tasks. Olikai watches, adoration in her eyes.

Nialla Mes'ard, Midsummer Herald says, "Thank you very much, both of you."

You gaze softens as you smile at Olikai Clawheart.

You trace the name of Tridemon on the surface of a primaeval shadowglass snowglobe of dark fauna, and then shake the globe vigorously. As the swirling particles within clear, you see the vague outline of on the upper deck of the Pool of Stars.

Lief flashes Ula a grateful smile as she accepts the lily, then holds it to Zitto for him to admire with her.

Elexia glances off to the west for a moment, then back at the gathering. "I must meditate for a time, but this has been just lovely. Be well, everyone!" She clasps her hands and bows respectfully.

Xiran L'Eternae says, "Blessed be, Elexia!"

Jolanthe Myeras says, "Take care, Elexia."

Zitto regards the flower fondly for a moment. Almost absently, he turns to Elexia and says, "Be well!"

Watching Duethielle, though addressing the group, you say, "I am grateful to have been invited... but I must be ..." They trail off as Elexia speaks, laughing. "Yeah, that. Be well, Miss Elexia!"

You beam broadly at Elexia.

Lief tells you, "I was just asking about - you are free to wander the Serenwilde as you please, whenever you please, Gurashi. People might ask you questions or join you for your visits, but you are welcome to visit here freely."

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

Surrounded by a wild fragrance, Elexia departs to the west, colourful, ghostly blooms following her footsteps.

Quietly, Ula, Psalmist of the Treesongs says to Lief, "I had it but I don't know where it came from."

Your melodic voice sings into Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon's mind, "*assent*."

Lysandus pets a fierce timberwolf ingratiatingly.

Xiran curtseys gracefully before you.

Admiringly to a dragonsnap lily, Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon says, "It is truly beautiful."

Spirit Guard Lysandus says to a fierce timberwolf, "There you are boy."

Twiddling their thumbs, you say, "I have some things I gotta take care of. Paperworks - and some waking friends I haven't seen in a while...!"

You clap your hands together merrily.

Lief tells you, "So...mark this place on your map!"

Ula chews on her lip, deep in thought.

Nialla waves goodbye at you.

Lysandus nods his head at you.

Bizirik, the leothin chirps happily.

Lief looks up to you, grinning and waving.

Zitto says to you, "It was lovely to see you again."

Jolanthe nods her head enthusiastically.

Nialla Mes'ard, Midsummer Herald says to you, "You need to be sure to stop by again. Your baking is delicious."

Nialla curtseys gracefully.

Looking this way and that, you say, "Thank you - thank you all. Iy was really nice."

You cough softly.

Bright and clear, you say, "It. Bleugh."

Jolanthe gives a mulberry-swirl pumpkin loaf topped with streusel to you.

Jolanthe Myeras says, "For the road."

Bright and clear, you say, "I am grateful. Oh! Breads!"

You beam broadly at Jolanthe.

Nialla places both hands upon her chest, pausing as if gazing within. After a moment, she bends and brushes the air, trails of prismatic light following her fingertips as she draws aside the veil of reality to create a path through which she may walk.

Bright and clear, you say, "Thank you. Be well? And be kindly to each other?"

Bright and clear, you say to Olikai Clawheart, "And it is so nice to finally meet you. I will see you more, yes I will."

Unbroken Lief Myeras-Silvermoon smiles and says to you, "We ever are."

You face lights up as you smile brightly at Duethielle Ladrennbenn.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn flashes her clear blue eyes upon you.

You face lights up as you smile brightly at Lief.
Jolanthe nods solemnly.

Ula chews on her lip, deep in thought.

"I may visit the Temple," Lief murmurs to Zitto, holding a dragonsnap lily in her lap. "To prepare for Taemira's rite. Would you like to join me, or would you rather be elsewhere between now and then?"

Zitto says to Lief, "I would love to go with you, my dear."

Lief leans in to press a kiss against Zitto's cheek, then draws herself to her feet and offers Zitto her hand.

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

Lief places both hands upon her chest, pausing as if gazing within. After a moment, she bends and brushes the air, trails of prismatic light following her fingertips as she draws aside the veil of reality to create a path through which she may walk.

Xiran turns to Ula, considering the young trill thoughtfully.

Bright and clear, you exclaim, "O-K! Bye bye now! Zoom away with us, away we go!"

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

Lief places both hands upon her chest, pausing as if gazing within. After a moment, she bends and brushes the air, trails of prismatic light following her fingertips as she draws aside the veil of reality to create a path through which she may walk.

Lysandus smiles softly at Lief and Zitto then shakes his head, his mind turns elsewhere.

<-- And then I poofed away!