"/ Believe me, I tried /"

**The following month after trying to reach out to Khep but being unsuccessful >_< Gurashi has been sad and homeward bound but TRIDEMON got a BRAND NEW THING TO SHOW OFF... and became a second attempt at connecting with Khep**

A cozy living room above the kitchen.                  (#HAH_5)
Eleven steps, all different dimensions and carved from dark ravenwood lead to a comfortable little living area. Dark floors contrast the gentle green shade painted on the walls, and bright, flickering wall sconces. A curved ceiling looks as if it has been scooped directly out of a tree, and thick support joists criss-cross the expanse. Delicate muslin curtains cover either window and barely touch the floor. On both window sills sit half a dozen tiny planters with newly sprouting flowers and herbs inside. Three plain oak doors typically stand closed, but whiffs of lavender and petrichor can be detected when they open, briefly displacing the delicious smells of the kitchen below. The diminutive size, low lighting, and soothing colors of this room invoke a sense of ease and respite. A heavy canvas couch has been shoved into a corner of the room, a plethora of purple and red poppies brightening the room. A tapestry depicting the creation of the lyrebird is proudly hanging here. A lush beige carpet is spread out on the ground. There are 2 elegantly carved ravenwood armchairs here. A beautiful couch here glitters with autumn gemstone leaves. A small dark brown tea table stands here. A painting of Gurashi and the Racist Dartboard is proudly exhibited on a nearby wall. A gilded pedestal, displaying a painting of A Stack of Cats, stands here, its gold leaf cracked and weathered. A gilded pedestal, displaying a painting of Puppet of Fate, stands here, its gold leaf cracked and weathered. A shimmering blue circle floats in the room here. A gilded pedestal stands here, its gold leaf cracked and weathered.

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

You blink.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "**a whistle of surprise** Oh - hello, Tridemon. How are??"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, ".... you - how are you. Ahhoops."

The melodious voice of Tridemon resonates in your mind, "I'm alright. I finished designing the robes, and they were approved recently, so now I'm wearing those."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "...am sorry?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "**a gentle chirr** ... you, got new clothes, Tridemon??"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "...are they nice?"

The melodious voice of Tridemon resonates in your mind, "I showed you an illusory concept of the robes sometime last year, or the year before? And yes, they are."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "Am remembering... yeah! Oh!"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "Do... you want to show me?"

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

The melodious voice of Tridemon resonates in your mind, "Want me to come to you?"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "O-K O-K, O-K. Where wi-- er, whichever is easiest for you."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "Have no preferences."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters, "Am just excited that get to have a new nice thing so am excited to see, yes yes."

You open the oak door to the down.

You suddenly shut your eyes, raising a hand to your beak as you yawn.

Great waves crash over one another as they pour in from the down, finally swirling together before solidifying into Tridemon.

You have emoted: Gurashi bumps into Tridemon at the top of the stairs. "Oh!"

Laughing, you say, "Timing! Many gre--."

LOOK TRIDEMON
He is a crystalline lucidian tidebourne demigod and his body is a strange combination of colours. Most of him is a deep violet colour, while his left arm is a combination of oceanic shades of deep blues and greens, shifting in a rhythmic, tidally slow dance. In addition, it appears that his fingers of his left hand, including his thumb, have an extra joint, tapering off to sharp- but not narrow- points. He doesn't have hair so much as sculpted spikes of crystal, flaring back along his skull almost like plumage. He also presents an odd form of heterochromia in his eyes, with his right eye simply being a somewhat darker violet as much of his crystalline flesh, while his left eye is broken up into three jagged sections, each approximately a third of the visible surface of his eye, showing amber, emerald and opal segments, with pupils occupying both the emerald and amber. A shifting pearlescence graces his skin as he walks with the truefavour of Carakhan, Sculptor of Waves. A scarlet hieroglyph rests in the centre of his forehead, flickering with occasional tongues of lightning to show the truefavour of Mysrai, the Shofet of Abyssal Scales.
Resembling an entity from the cosmic planes, his head is wreathed in undulating strands of shimmering cosmic fire. Attuned to his moods, the chromatic waves are in constant flux, from rising up in a halo of incandescent anger to streaming back in ripples of pleasure.
He is wearing:
an Elemental Cloak
a pearlescent aspergillum
a resonating lens of cascading patterns
a hollow wedding band filled with sapphire-infused liquid
the Boots of Astral Jumping
a resplendent amberlight blossom
the Mantle of Starlight
Thalassic Prayer Beads of the Sculptor of Waves wrapped around his left forearm, partially fused with the flesh there
a pair of thin spectacles worn slightly too low on his face to actually cover the entirety of his eyes
a Runed Crown of Divine Light
a symbol of Carakhan
a Celestian friendship bracelet
a ring of calming hues
a parafilament saddlebag
a silver necklace set with star sapphires
a dark pearl pocket watch with a clover charm
an amethyst crown representing the wine-dark sea
a smouldering dragon pin
a gleaming pendant of starlight
bright white robes of platinum waves <-- new!!

You look at bright white robes of platinum waves that Tridemon is wearing:
Made principally from snow white silk, these finely-tailored robes have
been designed to cover the wearer thoroughly while allowing easy freedom
of movement. The hem of the robes rests just above the ankles of the
wearer, while the sleeves fall an inch or so short of the wrists.
Embroidered along the hem and ends of the sleeves are oceanic waves made
of platinum thread, accented with faint hints of blue dye that fade back
into the main white of the robes. A braided, silken cord of that same
snow white material has been built into the waist of the robes, allowing
the wearer to cinch it in for a more comfortable, secure fit. The cord
has been weighted on each end, one with a disc made from a powerstone
which has been engraved with a stylized drop of water, while the other
bears three platinum feathers, modeled after those found on the wings of
the angels of Celestia. The hood of the robes also bears that same
pattern of platinum waves along the edge of the material, and when the
hood is raised, the waves are meant to frame the wearer's face. Directly
in the center of the back of the robes is a large triangular patch of
white leather, with emblems along each corner and within the center. The
lower left is a platinum pair of hands clasped in prayer, the lower
right is a stylised representation of a cresting wave in sapphire, and
the top is a set of feathers made of diamond. Within the center of the
triangular patch is a combination of the three symbols- a pair of
angelic wings with alternating diamond and sapphire feathers, outlined
in platinum.

Tridemon raises his hand in greeting to you and says "Hi!"

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

You have emoted: Gurashi doesn't answer, jaw falling open and antennae raising straight up. He looks utterly taken aback, then gasps, letting out a happy buzz. "Tridemon! Ooowah!"

You chitter at Tridemon with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

A gust of wind carries on it the pleasant warmth of the noon day sun and the tranquil song of insects.

You have emoted: Gurashi begins to circle Tridemon, antennae twitching with interest. "Oh my gosh! Uuwah! It is so BRIGHT! It is so pretty!!" He continues to chitter excitedly.

Practically bursting at the seams of his carapace, you say to Tridemon, "Are looking a-ma-zing!! Oh!" Suddenly he gasps. "Is your shoulder O-K? Does fit O-K??""

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Oh, yes. These are splendour robes, after all. Immaculately tailored."

You face lights up as you smile brightly at Tridemon.

You think to yourself: *a wave of awe and fascination! All the pretty little details, all the shining colors and iconography, so much to look at*.

You have emoted: Gurashi wanders up behind Tridemon, then reaches out, stopping before actually touching. "Can see?" He asks, gesturing at the hood. "With hood up!"

You chitter at Tridemon with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

Tridemon raises the hood on bright white robes of platinum waves.

Tridemon pats the side of the hood lightly after it's been raised.

You have emoted: Gurashi chitters excitedly once more, walking in another close circle. He pauses, standing at Tridemon's side, examining the hood, mandibles clicking against his face. "They are so very beautiful, Tridemon!" He finally leans back, clapping his hands together. "You must be very proud!"

You gaze softens as you smile at Tridemon.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to you, "It took a while for them to be approved, but that's to be expected."

You have emoted: Gurashi's energy begins to dwindle as his excitement fades. "Yeah, well. Think was worth the wait." He chirps.

Bizirik, the leothin chirps happily at Tridemon.

You think to yourself: They are so PRETTY in person.

After a pause, you say, "...uhm - what do all of the..."

Faintly buzzing, you ask, "...there's a lot of symbols, and things. Some obvious - others... they mean things, yes...?"

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Oceanic and Celestian motifs- that's Celestian as in the plane of Celestia. Fidelity and faithfulness... Devotion and dedication, to be expressed through art, word, and deed."

You have emoted: Gurashi nods, listening, eyes tracing over the designs again as they are elaborated upon.

Quietly, you say, "They are so nice! Am so very happy for you."

Thoughtfully tilting his head and looking upward, you say, "You have made lots of changes the last few years, Tridemon."

Tridemon tilts his head curiously.

Fireflies light up the darkness outside as they dance in slow, chaotic patterns.
You have emoted: Gurashi looks back down at Tridemon, left antennae sagging as he begins to count on his finger. "Uhm - you got new glasses, and, then your arm got broke and fixed, and so your eyes stopped hiding," He smiles, "And you are finally building yourself a house! And then your staff changed! And now, you have new robes. New things...!"

Shutting his eyes and beaming sleepily, you say, "All good things."

You think to yourself: *relief and joy, still admiring the many details and bright whites against Tridemon's violet complexion*.

The evening air is warm and still, and your surroundings glitter with dappled, luminous starlight.
It is now the 24th of Kiani, 557 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 27 days until the New Moon

Tridemon pats you in a friendly manner.

Faintly buzzing, you ask Tridemon, "What? Am wrong?"

You sniff softly.

"Nope," Tridemon says with finality.

You face lights up as you smile brightly at Tridemon.

A warm, gentle wind brings forth the scents and sounds of fresh moving water.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Good."

Reaching up to scratch the side of his head, you say, "Hope everyone else likes them too! Bet will look -great- in battle."

Tridemon strikes a pose.

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

Perking up, you say to Tridemon, "Yeah! Like that!"

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Wait wait pose with the staff too - aww heck, do not have a fancy wizzer box."

You snap your fingers.

Tridemon ponders the situation.

Tridemon brandishes a dazzling white staff crowned by a platinum pearl menacingly.

Laughing quietly, you say, "Yeah yeah! Wait am taking mental image."

You have emoted: Gurashi pretends he is holding a wizzer box, mimicking the click with his mandibles. "Neat!"

The grass rustles slightly as a warm night breeze caresses your skin.

Tridemon ponders the situation.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "I wonder if Khep would like them."

You have emoted: Gurashi's face falls, the right antennae sagging with the left. "...yeah. She probably will."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks down, unsure. "Has not said anything this month."

The gray light of morning bleeds through the branches of the Ravenwood trees.

You think to yourself: ....... *a sinking feeling*.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "You can try reaching out to her again if you like."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Should be easier the second time."

You have emoted: Gurashi quickly looks up at Tridemon, then back down towards his feet, mandibles clicking.

You open your mouth to say something, but speech fails you.

Loud to the point of seeming reverberation, cicadas play out buzzing dissonances.

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly shakes his head, rubbing at his beak. "...easier - but, do think is O-K? Mean like, safe for."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Mm... probably? If she hasn't gotten somewhere safe by now..."

You have emoted: Gurashi taps his fingers together. "She usually reaches out. Sometimes, is doesn't. We..." He shakes his head again.

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

A gust of wind carries on it the pleasant warmth of the noon day sun and the tranquil song of insects.

After a pause, you say to Tridemon, "...you came to show me your beautiful shiny new robes, not walk my brain through finding mysterious kepheran woman from my past - do not want to take advantage of your kindnesses."

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

Tridemon shrugs helplessly.

Tridemon throws himself onto a soft couch decorated with needlepoint poppies, sprawling out and making himself at home.

You blink.

Bizirik, the leothin slinks over to the base of the couch Tridemon lounges on, laying down and stretching out languidly.

You have emoted: Gurashi timidly steps over to the couch opposite Tridemon, sitting down and laying his lute beside him before folding his hands in his lap.

You sit yourself down on an autumn gemstone couch and make yourself comfortable.

You think to yourself: ...O-K, O-K. Just like last night. Am not as tired so will be easier - right?

You have emoted: Gurashi shuts his eyes, bowing his head slightly, still holding his hands together.

You think to yourself: *dark, dark, familiar dark brainscape - where are they, the vines the vines. The roots! Suddenly, a little glowing sprout of green, and a rush of joy*.

The soft tinkling of seashell wind chimes is carried in on a warm breeze.

Tridemon settles in to watch and monitor, lounging on the soft couch.

You have emoted: Gurashi's antennae twitch, the barest hint of a smile gracing his features.

You think to yourself: Ah! There you are - hello, hello! *the little sprout is soon joined by others, small but growing, extending and writhing and wrapping around one another until the darkness replaced with a vibrant living wall of greenery*.

You think to yourself: O-K! Have been here before. Know this part. Am doing the thing....

You think to yourself: *the colors shift - the bright green turning chartreuse, then yellow, unsure* Am doing it right, right, Tridemon?

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "You're doing just fine."

You have emoted: Gurashi's eyes remain closed, mandibles twitching.

You think to yourself: *ahhhhh, another swell of pride, bright greens making the vines look shiny and healthy once again* O-K! O-K. Miss Khep I am coming to find you! O-K?

Bizirik, the leothin licks its lips, then shifts, turning its back on Gurashi and instead facing the needlepoint couch you rest on.

Brilliant sunset hues bathe your surroundings in a warm carmine afterglow.

You think to yourself: *a single vine untangles itself from the rest, moving across the ground in a slow, undulating motion. The green glow is lost to darkness the further away from the circle the vine travels. And it travels... and it travels.... *.

You think to yourself: / *it is no different than any other day, nowadays. the usual disturbances of the hive - chittering and movement, scraping, chirps. no lingering presences. no visitors* /.

You have emoted: Gurashi's hands clench together a bit tighter as he continues to concentrate, canting his head.

From somewhere unseen, a cat meows softly before it is heard scampering off.

You think to yourself: Where oh where... oh where ... *there is so -much- darkness here. we are going far, now. this is further than last month. So where?*.

Tridemon closes his eyes, letting his own psionic power spread out through the room, bringing along a sense of cool, fresh water- suitable for bolstering plant life.

You think to yourself: ...*loud, and clear, voice echoing in the darkness, making the vine ripple in its search* Miss Khep?

Softly, aloud, not realizing it, you say, "Miss Khep..."

You think to yourself: *the vine's journey continues, creeping, no longer in a straight even line, but now it dips, and it curls, as if descending deep, deeper. Even the air, illusory as it may be, feels colder. It slows, not from fear, but because there are more and more obstacles that cannot be seen, dotting the path*.

You think to yourself: *softer, but no less desperate* Miss KHEP?

You think to yourself: / *familiar soft buzzing from the hive* /.

You have emoted: Gurashi shifts where he sits, bowing his head deeper. He remains visibly tense, hands still forcibly clasped together as he searches.

Bizirik, the leothin suddenly lifts its head, ears flicking.

You think to yourself: / *nearly unnoticeable, but... quieter now* /.

Tridemon opens his eyes, looking over at Bizirik. "I have a better idea for helping, now." He says, letting the cool, watery psionic energy meld with the plantlife and vines of your circle, to nourish, bolster... and sense disturbances more easily.

Fireflies light up the darkness outside as they dance in slow, chaotic patterns.

The evening air is warm and still, and your surroundings glitter with dappled, luminous starlight.
It is now the 25th of Kiani, 557 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 26 days until the New Moon

You think to yourself: ... *quiet* Tridemon? *the vine creeps along whatever obstacle keeps it from going forward, moving in uneven patterns*.

You think to yourself: / *quieter still...* /.

Bizirik, the leothin gently rests its head on the edge of the couch, still facing away from Gurashi as its tail slaps the ground from time to time, irritated.

The gray light of morning bleeds through the branches of the Ravenwood trees.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "At the end of the vine... extend roots. Plants do not simply quest for the sun. The mightiest stones fall to the persistent efforts of the green. Water weakens. Roots grip and break and push into any gap. That is what they are for."

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

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Softness is not necessarily weakness. Flexibility is not surrender."

You think to yourself: ... *The vine slows to a halt, then presses against whatever is stopping it. No, nothing. Solid. It continues - find something, anything. Some way in - has to be around here*.

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

You think to yourself: Miss Khep.... *the vine suddenly finds an opening, or at least a gap between whatever this great obstacle is another another - it squeezes through, barely... these walls feel oppressive, and it is very quiet. mostly quiet*.

You think to yourself: ... *a flicker of gold in the darkness ahead* ...

Tridemon closes his eyes again, his own consciousness following along the vine- keeping close, and keeping himself hidden... more or less.

You think to yourself: / *stifling and quiet, with hardly more than a single chitter or chirp now and then* /.

You think to yourself: *the vine curls, hesitating, before approaching the gold carefully* ...Miiiiss Khep?

You think to yourself: / .... /.

You think to yourself: *the gold moves, bobbing a little*.

You think to yourself: *the vine...... slows, unsure*.

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

You have emoted: Gurashi's mandibles click again, and he shifts again in his spot, shrugging his shoulders and rolling his head, looking uncomfortable.

Bizirik, the leothin snorts and looks up at Tridemon, letting out a faint little chirp.

You think to yourself: *the color of the vine changes, no longer a glaring viridescent green but a gentle teal that ripples with washes of blue... suddenly, it stops, coming upon what feels like a dead end. No, no, just... *.

You have emoted: Gurashi leans back against the couch and sighs as some of the tension leaves his limbs. Just as soon as he's relaxed, he scrunches shut his eyes again, focused.

Loud to the point of seeming reverberation, cicadas play out buzzing dissonances.

You think to yourself: ...... *the vine creeps towards the light, clearer now - yes, bits of familiar seafoam light...* Miss Khep?

You think to yourself: / ........... *a faint clicking of mandibles* /.

You think to yourself: *the vine comes to rest as it finds another obstacle... this time - water. Lots of it. And seated beside it, visible only in the reflective light cast by her eyes and thorax, Khep* ...yyyyaaaaaaaay, we -found- you. Hi, look! Did it. Big brain stuff!

A gust of wind carries on it the pleasant warmth of the noon day sun and the tranquil song of insects.

You think to yourself: / ....*a pained, buzzing sigh* ..... Tiso. Keeper. /.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "'lo, Khep. We were getting worried about you."

You think to yourself: *still singing softly* We fooound you, foooound you - am so glad... hi! Miss Khep! Ooa! You are O-K?? *The vine wiggles excitedly, bobbing back and forth like a limp noodle, flashing vibrant rays of blue and green and gold and now pink*.

You think to yourself: / *flat and forced, tired, irritated* You flatter me with your concern /.
Aquamantic symbols suddenly project themselves upon the very air in dark blue light, fading after a brief moment.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Gurashi thinks you are in need of assistance. I am inclined to agree."

You think to yourself: H-hey! *The vine turns bright pink, then returns to its flashes of blue and green* That is not nice, we worked so hard to find you! You left in such a hurry, you would not help! You are O-K? You are in danger?

You think to yourself: / .... /.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "I think she's not in... immediate danger."

You think to yourself: / *suddenly, you feel very scrutinized... and not in a friendly way* Are you out of your minds? Coming all the way out here? /.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to you, "I'm not sure she's familiar with the attitude of adventurers."

You have emoted: Gurashi smiles weakly, sweat visible on his carapace, minor discomfort still present in his expression.

You think to yourself: / Tiso, you have zero psionic sense. You are a sitting salamander. Look at this. -Anyone- can see this *you feel her gesture at the vine* /.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Perhaps. But did you notice me there, too?"

You think to yourself: / No. But I knew you would come /.

You think to yourself: *the vine flickers through a multitude of colors* Heeyyyyy... listen worked so hard...

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to you, "You are many things. Subtle is not one of them."

You think to yourself: Oooaaaaa am not sure what y--.

Brilliant sunset hues bathe your surroundings in a warm carmine afterglow.

You think to yourself: *the vine is suddenly forcibly restrained - thrashing* oh wait what whAT aahHHHHHHHHH-- *bright gold digits wrapped in a vice-like grip around the vine, keeping it from leaving* missKHEEPwhatAREYoudoing--.

You think to yourself: / Zero reflexes. *suddenly, she lets go* /.

You have emoted: Gurashi inhales sharply, mandibles clicking once loudly against his face.

You think to yourself: *the vine retreats, now a muted gray-blue, dim* That was mean - that wasn't nice *the vine keeps a safe distance now, out of reach* /.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to you, "She has a point. Though somewhat less of one than she might. A flower should bloom on the end of the vine. That is the part that should express yourself. The rest... Blend in. The forest is not simply bright growth. Camouflage is appropriate. A covering of flexible, protective bark. No thorns. Not yet."

You think to yourself: *the vine remains muted, shifting through greens and yellows of uncertainty* I ... oh.

You think to yourself: ... *suddenly* Miss Khep, please come into my circle.

You think to yourself: / ..... /.

You think to yourself: *The color begins to seep back into the vine, now again vibrant and green and pulsing with energy* ...Tridemon is in it! And all of my friends and family - Xenthos and Miss Lief and Ishra. You can be in it too - would like you to be, yeah yeah. Doesn't it sound fun? Then can keep you safe.

You think to yourself: / *a miserable buzz* Tiso ... /.

Fireflies light up the darkness outside as they dance in slow, chaotic patterns.

You have emoted: Gurashi begins to wring his hands together, head twitching to the left.

You think to yourself: *an increasing sense of unease* ...I just - cannot do very much? But can try?? Please at the very least, let me try.

The evening air is warm and still, and your surroundings glitter with dappled, luminous starlight.
It is now the 1st of Dioni, 557 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 25 days until the New Moon

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Sometimes... the only thing to do is to let someone help."

You think to yourself: *a flutter of emotions - the vine reflects this in a myriad of colors, poised, expectant*.

The chirping of frogs and crickets surrounds you in a medley of natural song.

You think to yourself: / ....... *sounding tense, strained* Y... I probably should stop seeing you, Tiso /.

You have emoted: Gurashi stills.

You think to yourself: What?

You think to yourself: Wait wait wait wait wait wait.

You think to yourself: *the vine creeps forward and encircles the kephera in her spot* wait wait wait why?

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "I assume she's being... pressured. Politically or otherwise."

You think to yourself: / *a whistle of frustration, akin to Gurashi's* Because it is something that I will not be able to keep to myself. No matter how hard I try - believe me, I tried /.

You have emoted: Gurashi's mandibles twitch, and he sits up straighter, suddenly tense again.

You think to yourself: Wait - why does it have to be a secret?? Mean, there are lots of kephera on the surface Miss Khep - it is O-K to visit, in BODY too! You saw the princess in Hallifax! Can believe it?? *the vine pulses a soothing blue, a fearful violet, an urgent green*.

You think to yourself: / ...*sounding weak and tired* My reaching out to you was entirely selfish to start...... I thought you were some... impostor ... /.

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

You think to yourself: / *a little firmer, buzzing* I was at peace, you know. Believing you did not make it. I moved on /.

Bizirik, the leothin's ears flick, and its eyes suddenly open wide. It bristles, heckles raising as it swiftly sweeps its gaze in Gurashi's direction, a growl rumbling deep in its chest. It rises to its feet and stalks away, laying down at the entrance to the study and watching, licking its lips.

The gray light of morning bleeds through the branches of the Ravenwood trees.

You twitch spasmodically.

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

You think to yourself: / .... *a buzzing sigh* I cannot accept, Tiso. And if you knew why, you would not want me to /.

You think to yourself: .... *a wash of golden hues* Well, that stuff is in the past so, do not care? You are here now so, yes would like you to come into myyy circle yep. Please.

Bizirik, the leothin's lip curls a bit as it continues to warily watch the room.

You think to yourself: / Tiso - I can't /.

You think to yourself: // *a gentle pulse of sound, like a burst of air that washes over and passes quickly* //.

You think to yourself: *suddenly, the vine turning a deep indigo* I will let you tell me everything.

You twitch spasmodically.

You think to yourself: / ... /.

You think to yourself: If ...that is what would take to make feel safe then will do anything O-K? O-K?

You think to yourself: // ... *a sense of unease* //.

Tridemon focuses abruptly, separating his consciousness out from the vine in a stream of crystal-clear water, sinking down toward the floor and spreading out- not unlike the watery terrain that Aquamancers utilize for their workings.

You think to yourself: / .... I ... /.

You think to yourself: // ....*a creeping sensation....* //.

You open your mouth to say something, but speech fails you.

You have emoted: Gurashi exhales, letting out another held breath. "Please say yes," He mutters out loud, exhausted.

You think to yourself: / .... *there is pressure around the vine again, but this time, it is gentle, like a timidly held hand * ... /.

You think to yourself: .... ah - Tridemon - what do I do now? *there is a quiet sound, a weeping that's barely above a whisper, but for once it -isn't- Gurashi*.

Tridemon blinks a bit, looking a bit confused. "... try a hug?" He suggests, uncertain.

You think to yourself: Er......... aha, isn't what... how do bring her back? How do go back? To my circle... we are far from home.

You think to yourself: // *suddenly, you feel... like something is looming, just out of sight, and the unease becomes downright uncomfortable* /.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Oh, THAT. Much the same. If she will let you, wrap her up in yourself, and pull her-."

You think to yourself: Oh - like, a hug...?

You think to yourself: / *suddenly* Tiso /.

Tridemon suddenly narrows his eyes and focuses again on the vine and the water. "Don't panic."

You think to yourself: So, just like a hug - can do that. Miss Khep Miss Khep, this is probably gonna be -weird- cause am just a -vine- in your brain ......... *the color mutes* Panic?

You think to yourself: / *the grip tightens* ... go. We have to go /.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "There's something rather unfriendly watching. But I planned for this..."

You think to yourself: *the vine writhes, pulling back, urging Khep to follow along with it as it starts tracing its original path* W... unfriendly?

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Mmhmm. Again... don't panic. Just let me..."

Tridemon is suddenly surrounded by an aura of translucent divine fire.

The evening air is warm and still, and your surroundings glitter with dappled, luminous starlight.
It is now the 3rd of Dioni, 557 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 23 days until the New Moon

Tridemon pulls the divine fire, from the burning of his essence, and essentially shoves it down through the vine toward Khep and the length of the vine in a defensive barrier.

Tridemon is no longer surrounded by an aura of translucent divine fire.

Bizirik, the leothin continues to grumble softly, watching with ever increasing agitation, tail lashing back and forth.

You think to yourself: / *there is an audible whistle of surprise as the pulse of divine fire lights up the darkness like a flare* What the-- /.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Hurry. It's not something I can sustain for very long. There's a couple of other things I can do, but it'd be best if I didn't have to improvise."

You think to yourself: // *the hive noise has returned, low and throbbing, then, louder in intensity - in the darkness, you think you see something, poised just overhead, slowly reaching...* //.

You think to yourself: O-K! *suddenly, a tug! A flash of colorful greens and yellows and pinks as the vine tightens its grasp, then abruptly pulls back, bringing Khep with it, starting the tedious retreat* Backtothecirclebacktothecircle.

A gust of wind carries on it the pleasant warmth of the noon day sun and the tranquil song of insects.

You have emoted: Gurashi slowly unlaces his hands from one another, leaning forward and resting his hands on his legs for support. He keeps his eyes closed, clearly concentrating, expression strained.

Tridemon gives a fierce grin, not quite following the vine immediately, instead pulling up the psionic power he'd been using as a conduit to connect to where you were looking for Khep, and shaping it into a wall of jagged ice... before simply severing it from himself, leaving spent power behind while his mind returns entirely to himself, his body abruptly slumping tiredly.

Bizirik, the leothin lets out a faint little whine, too far away to be of any physical support. Its tail slaps the floor several times, watching anxiously.

You think to yourself: // *there is a joined moment where both Gurashi and Khep see the wall appear. Awe. Fascination... What is that - just before you go, you see the sharp, jagged point of something bore through the ice - stopped short - a sound of GRINDING, and a sense of RAGE.....* //.

You think to yourself: *singing to himself as he retreats* Just keep... going, going. Miss Khep are with me? O-K? Yes yes?

Tridemon stays slumped, breathing heavily, though it's starting to steady as he keeps his eyes closed tightly. "Ow."

You think to yourself: / *quiet, buzzing affirmation - from time to time, a sniff* /.

You think to yourself: / *voice gentle but hoarse* Check on the Keeper, Tiso /.

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

You have emoted: Gurashi continues to reel in his own manifested thoughts, still gripping his legs. Slowly he lifts his head and opens his eyes, scanning the room, spotting Tridemon. It doesn't quite register at first, and the kephera narrows his eyes, blinking a couple times, then lets out a high pitched whistling gasp. "Tridemon..!"

Tridemon lifts one hand, shaking slightly. "I'll be fine. Not supposed to... severing bits of power and leaving them behind is... harder than I expected. ... Not entirely unlike leaving a bit of a meld behind. But with... concept. Idea made manifest. Ow. Not built for that."

You have emoted: Gurashi rises quickly from his couch, rushing to join Tridemon, crouching beside the lucidian and touching Tridemon's arm. "Wh..." He takes your hand in both of his smaller ones as you lift it, shaking his head. "You did too much - you hurt yourself!"

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

Looking at the couch and chittering anxiously, you say to Tridemon, "Lay down, lay down, will get something to drink."

The soft tinkling of seashell wind chimes is carried in on a warm breeze.

You think to yourself: *the vine is still reeling in, though its pace is slowed, Khep's gentle footsteps ticking behind it........ a wave of guilt, and the vine comes deep maroon*.

Tridemon steadies a little bit more, leaning back. "It'll be fine. I should just... not do that again. Dancing on the edge of burnout."

Weakly, you say to Tridemon, ".....because of all the big brain stuff....."

You have emoted: Gurashi stares at Tridemon, unmoving and serious.

You think to yourself: / .... /.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Tsk. Most of it was easy. I got worried at the end. Hurled a piece of myself at whatever was chasing. A wall. Jagged ice."

Brilliant sunset hues bathe your surroundings in a warm carmine afterglow.

Sounding tired and worried, you say to Tridemon, "...yeah it... mmf."

Wooden wind chimes can be heard clunking gently together as a breeze moves through.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks like he has more to say, but he doesn't, giving your hand a reassuring squeeze with both of his before letting go.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "It got REALLY angry at me for that one."

You shiver violently.

You think to yourself: *a wave of throbbing guilty red and violets... very nearly back, at least - very nearly*.

You have emoted: Gurashi finally rises from the floor, sinking to sit and occupy the other free half of the couch. "Tridemon, you are always having to do big brain stuff around me, and that must be exhausting too. Am a -little- worried."

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

You tilt your head, gaze softening as you frown.

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

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Most of it is just listening, you know."

You think to yourself: / .... *another sniff, and continued movement... it's so quiet, compared to what it has been* /.

Antennae sagging, you say to Tridemon, "Yes, but, it's a lot."

Faintly buzzing, you say to Tridemon, "It is a lot for me, so must be a lot for you."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Even when I'm guiding you on what to do, it's you who are doing most of the heavy lifting. ... You back in your circle?"

You have emoted: Gurashi opens his mouth to speak, then shuts it again, shutting his eyes and focusing for a moment...

You think to yourself: *the vine retreats a little faster... no more than half a minute later, and the colorful green and blue of the wall of vines is visible* Oh, whew. O-K. Miss Khep - look. My -circle-. Made it myself, Tridemon helped me...

You think to yourself: / ....... * a chirr* /.

You think to yourself: ............ I do not know what will happen when you come inside. Hopefully, it will all be O-K. Will be safe yes? Well. At least will be quieter. Maybe. I do not know what the circle will do.

You think to yourself: Cannot help you, wherever you actually are. But can still try and loo--.

You think to yourself: / Don't try and look /.

You think to yourself: Right...

You twiddle your thumbs.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "... Oh, ask her if she's interested in looking at my new robes."

You have emoted: Gurashi opens his eyes and glances aside to Tridemon, mandibles clicking as he smirks.

The evening air is warm and still, and your surroundings glitter with dappled, luminous starlight.
It is now the 4th of Dioni, 557 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 22 days until the New Moon

You think to yourself: / *softly, still sounding hoarse* I noticed ....... *softer still* They are very nice /.

Tridemon opens his eyes again, giving a lopsided smile. His left eye is rotating, shifting from the pupil in amber to emerald, then back to amber and to the pupil-less opal segment for a short while before returning to emerald.

You have emoted: Gurashi watches the rapidly changing pupil, smiling lightly.

You chitter at Tridemon with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

Tiredly, you say to Tridemon, "Really are... O-K, now, go inside the circle."

You think to yourself: *an insistent tug - the wall of vines is right there, inviting and pulsing warm soothing shades of orange and pink*.

You think to yourself: / ... *hesitation* /.

You think to yourself: Miss Khep something like most of accidents happen within five feet of home - get in-side-, silly! *a gentle tug*.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "If you don't go in, I'll be somewhat... cross."

You smirk at Tridemon.

You think to yourself: Yeah! We worked SO hard!

You think to yourself: / ........ *a hesitant step forward, finally crossing into the barrier* /.

Tridemon gives a relieved sigh, letting his eyes close again.

You think to yourself: *a great sigh of relief, the vines warm and magenta. The hard-working tendril slips up and braids itself in with the rest, all of the gaps closing, leaving nothing but an enclosed space with an ethereal glow, and a overwhelming sense of adoration*.

You think to yourself: ....yyyyyaaaaaaay!

You have emoted: Gurashi glances over at Tridemon again, frowning and tilting his head. "You are O-K? I can do anything for you?"

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "I'm fine. Headache. Except it's not just INSIDE my head."

The wind sings quietly as it passes through the branches of the ravenwood trees.

You blink.

You have emoted: Gurashi studies Tridemon for a moment, then looks ahead, considering what's been said. He rises from the couch without a word, walking downstairs and disappearing from sight. You hear the sound of the pump, and then running water, and then some confused conversation with the cats downstairs...

You have emoted: Gurashi returns after a minute, damp violet kerchief in hand, chittering as he approaches Tridemon. "O-K, outside headaches need cold things, so made it winter outside to pack this." He wordlessly but very gently tilts your head back so he may place the kerchief in place across your forehead. "Ta-da," He whispers. "Better?"

You chitter at Tridemon with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

Tridemon gives a vague grunt. "Little bit. It'll get better with time. I don't have the right artifacts to recover quickly, and I don't anticipate the need for them... is Khep okay?"

Slowly sitting back down, you whisper, "Please do not move."

You think to yourself: / ... *softly, though resoundingly clear, as if she were just a few feet away* Yes /.

Setting his hands in his lap, you ask, "...what artifacts would help...?"

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Oh, a selection of various cups... but again, it'll just be a bit of time. Not more than a day or two. It'd be worse if I'd pushed further."

Softly, you say, "O-K. You do not have to push any harder. In fact, please - do not."

You have emoted: Gurashi smiles weakly.

You have emoted: Gurashi eyes the kerchief, making sure it hasn't moved, tapping his fingers against his legs. "...what happens now? For Miss Khep." He looks worried. "What do need to do to keep the circle... up and, quiet and safe?"

Tridemon grunts lightly. "Well, there goes my plan of attempting to levitate boulders through telepathic manipulation. ... Which is different from telekinetic manipulation, mind."

You blink.

You think to yourself: Like Friend Aschwar was doing...

You think to yourself: No - they were picking it up with their arms.

You glance askance.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "... Khep, you're going to help Gurashi recognize sarcasm, right?"

You think to yourself: / *a weak laugh* He never really quite got the hang of it... /.

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

A gust of wind carries on it the pleasant warmth of the noon day sun and the tranquil song of insects.

You have emoted: Gurashi's smile begins to wilt, and he looks down towards his hands, antennae sagging. He looks out across the living room, listening to the various gentle, peaceful noises of the manse.

You think to yourself: / I will do what I can /.

Sounding very tired, you say, "It has been a long few months, yes."

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to you, "Stay positive. Maybe now you'll feel less tired all the time."

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

You have emoted: Gurashi opens his mouth, then shuts it, nodding slowly. "Right."

You think to yourself: / ....Thank you, Tiso. Keeper - Tridemon /.

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

You have emoted: Gurashi leans back against his half of the couch, folding his hands in his lap again. "Are welcome, Miss Khep," He buzzes sleepily. "Many thank yous for coming along this time, yes."

Tridemon seems disinclined to move.

You glance askance at Tridemon.

Lolling his head back again to stare at the ceiling, you say, "Yeah."

You have emoted: Gurashi falls silent, letting the noisy cry of insects fill the space the silence leaves as dusk settles in.

A final few flashes light up the Astral Plane before relative peace descends again, leaving the Grand Province of New Celest victorious in the Wild Nodes event.

You gaze softens as you smile.

You think to yourself: Good.

You think to yourself: / *gently* ... I have a lot that I want to say, but /.

You think to yourself: / *quiet* Not now /.

You think to yourself: / Not today. /.

You have emoted: Gurashi's smile dies again, and he closes his eyes exhaustedly. "...Right - O-K, Miss Khep." He submits, pulling his hat down over his eyes.

Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "Seems that right now is a good time to sit here. Being collapsed. Or something."

Faintly buzzing, you whisper, "This is very much my intention, yes."

Quietly, you say to Tridemon, "Listen... am going to probably fall asleep." He chitters sleepily, eyes still closed. "Are welcome to stay. Of course."

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

You think to yourself: / ..... *low, familiar humming* /.

You think to yourself: Yeah .... perfect time for.. sitting...*the image of vines begins to darken, replaced with the usual nothing at the edge of dreaming*.

A warm, gentle wind brings forth the scents and sounds of fresh moving water.

You think to yourself: ... *a lingering sense of safety* ...