"HOWDOISTOOOOO--" A Lesson in Ice Skating

**Watching Xenthos's play to make sure all sounds and looks ok!**

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist, "Am -ready-."

Xenthos tells you, "Please shoo away any visitors."

You have emoted: Gurashi stares blankly at the stage, limbs limp.

You think to yourself: Is so nice...

You think to yourself: Is nice to be at event... that did not plan.

You have emoted: Gurashi smiles tiredly to himself.

You think to yourself: Hope everyone can come later ... want to see Miss Duet... and, hope Binky and Liar get to see each other...

***finished play - was so good! Then went on highway to 'quest'...***

Great Southern Highway passing the Grey Moors. (road).
It is uncomfortably hot. Running parallel to the Southern Mountains, the highway meanders through the lower boundaries of the basin of civilization. The ground is smoothed by time, by feet, by beasts of burden, all of whom continually press down upon any vegetation that dares to try to shoot a sprout up in the path of commerce. To the south, the bleak expanses of the Grey Moors stretch outwards, endless grasslands broken only by the wisps of mist that shuffle across their surface. A statue of Crumkane stands here, memorialising His noble spirit. The delicate structure of a glistening snowflake slowly melts away here. A leopard lurks in the shadows, curiously watching anything that moves.
You see exits leading east and west.

You blink.

Carefully, you catch a glistening snowflake, the warmth of your touch melting it.
As a glistening snowflake evaporates, you feel yourself melting with it, condensing and falling strangely. Your sense of self becomes light as a feather, now utterly cold and crystalline in perfection. Falling and swimming with an errant breeze you follow, compelled to obey, as the soft sounds of joyous music accompany your flight. When your feet touch ground, you realise you are not where you were...

A palatial vestibule.
Stairs run down to the lower inner level of this room, while an aisle allows touring its edges and admiring the various paintings of winter displays that hang from the frosted walls. A carpet runner is laid out on the floor, which crunches underfoot due to the frigid temperature. Light from outside enters through large stately windows, which occasionally show the falling snow outside. On the inner level stand some sculptures of seasonal scenes. Dangling down from some unseen location above, a lavish silk rope hangs here. Standing tall and dutifully, Tombin, Steward of Solstice, is attentive to every need of the Court. A leopard lurks in the shadows, curiously watching anything that moves.
You see exits leading northeast and northwest.

Screaming loudly, you say, "AHHHH."

With a merry tone despite his reserved and dignified air, Tombin, Steward of Solstice says, "Welcome, Gurashi to the Solstice Court! We hope you will join our merrymaking."
Using a stern and dutiful inflection of his voice, Tombin, Steward of Solstice says, "Before you can journey into the Court proper and join us for the festivities, you must first vow to bring no harm or aggression here. The Solstice Court is a place for peace and joy, we will not accept violence. Can you make this vow?"
 [1] Yes, I so vow.
 [2] No, I cannot vow.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "...Yes, I so vow."

Nodding astutely with a pleased expression, Tombin, Steward of Solstice says, "Excellent choice. Now, the formalities, your vow is only good for this season. You shall need to register and reaffirm it next time we return."

Tombin, Steward of Solstice takes the illusory quill from his pocket and writes your name in the air with a flourish, then returns his quill. He faces you and gestures with an open palm, allowing you admittance to the festivities.

Tombin, Steward of Solstice says, "Ah, right, be sure to visit sir Bavdo Joyheart for outdoor entertainment."

Portico with rime-frosted colonnades.
This majestic portico offers shelter from the elements under its flat roof. Rime has crept up on the colonnades, leaving enchanting frosted patterns along its path. A wreath of fir leaves and berries hangs from the door suspended from a red ribbon. A doormat allows for the cleaning of shoes while also giving a welcoming appearance to the entrance. With a merry expression on his spectral face, Bavdo Joyheart, Groundskeeper, is here ready to serve. A leopard lurks in the shadows, curiously watching anything that moves. Clad in matte black leather, a golden-eyed savage lingers here like a living shadow.
You see exits leading northeast, southeast, southwest, and northwest.

Xenthos begins to follow you.

You greet Bavdo Joyheart, Court Groundskeeper with a sincere smile.
Heartily with joyful abandon, Bavdo Joyheart, Court Groundskeeper says, "Welcome, Gurashi and enjoy the Solstice Court! ASK me about my WARES for more festive fun."

You nod your head emphatically.

Confused, you ask, "An eggy?"

Muttering in a barely audible whisper, Kyalrhin Ysav'rai says, "Oh, you buy penguins for gold."

You tilt your head curiously at Kyalrhin.

You nod your head slowly in understanding.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Oh - ice skates...."

Bavdo Joyheart, Court Groundskeeper exclaims, "I sell skates if you need them, ASK me about my WARES. Just put them on, head over to the pond and SKATE in a direction. I can even teach you fancier skating moves if you ask!"
Bavdo Joyheart, Court Groundskeeper winks knowingly.

Your mandibles twitch slightly as you voice a brief, curious chirr.

Faintly buzzing, you ask, "...do HAVE to have them to be on ice?"

You peer at Bavdo Joyheart, Court Groundskeeper unscrupulously.
Bavdo Joyheart, Court Groundskeeper beams with joyful abandon and cheer at you.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "No, but it can be harder to stand upright there."

Kyalrhin gets some gold sovereigns from a travel-worn backpack.

You have emoted: Gurashi stares at the skates, then blinks.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Oh."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Can borrow ...money for skates."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "All of mine is still at bank."

You have emoted: Gurashi lets out a sudden chittering laugh.

Xenthos gives 5,000 gold sovereigns to you.

You pay 5,000 sovereigns and receive a pair of gleaming ice skates.

You have emoted: Gurashi considers the skates, then considers his feet, awkwardly moving his toes.

Faintly buzzing, you mutter, "Will figure .... out..."

Faintly buzzing, you ask Xenthos, "Where is the skating place?"

Xenthos points to the northwest.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "The pond in the middle."

Crossing a snow-flecked expanse of icy perfection.
A few light snowflakes drift slowly downwards. Smooth as glass and shimmering with the brilliance of a thousand cut diamonds, the ice glitters coldly and spans from one side to the other in snow-touched perfection. Sleek and dreamy, the surface bears no flaws, scratches or occlusions, its crystalline purity hinting at possibly unnatural origins. Frosted branches interlude near the lake's circumference like the offered arms of a dance partner, their rime beset limbs blanketed heavily with boughs of pristine, untouched snow.  The delicate structure of a glistening snowflake slowly melts away here. A leopard lurks in the shadows, curiously watching anything that moves.
You see exits leading north, northeast, southeast, west, and northwest.

Lacking the proper equipment, you slip on the ice and fall with an unceremonious 'thump.'

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Ow..."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Esee, here."

You have emoted: Gurashi quickly scootches backwards off of the ice, having been taken surprise by the sudden change in surface types.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard plods carefully over to you and gives you a push with her nose.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard stares implacably at you.

You have emoted: Gurashi grumbles to himself, then begins to try and work the skates onto his feet, muttering as he manages to stuff his chitinous feets into either boot and lace them, albeit poorly.

You slip into a pair of gleaming ice skates.

Staring at his feet, you say, "...how am supposed to get up."

Ilistala, an enormous leopard attempts to get underneath you to hoist you up.

You have emoted: Gurashi oomphs quietly as he is slowly but surely nudged onto his feet. As soon as he is upright, he begins to slowly scootch forward, arms aggressively extended outward in four different directions.

Kyalrhin tilts her head curiously.

Kyalrhin pets Ilistala, an enormous leopard ingratiatingly.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard pounces after you, skidding and spinning along the ice.

A flurry of dazzling snowflakes blow in on a chill breeze, swirling and dancing in the air with carefree abandon between the rays of sunshine.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard rubs up against Kyalrhin, purring like a cat.

Muttering in a barely audible whisper, Kyalrhin Ysav'rai says to Xenthos, "Did you strap on some skates to Ilistala?"

You have emoted: Gurashi lets out a terrified high-pitched cicada sound as he slowly scoots in another direction, starting to flail his arms.

Kyalrhin gives a bag of meat scraps to Ilistala, an enormous leopard.

Muttering in a barely audible whisper, Kyalrhin Ysav'rai says, "To ilistal who's a nice big kitty? You are!"

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "She has her own built-in claws to dig into the ice. No skates needed."

Xenthos pats Ilistala, an enormous leopard in a friendly manner.
A loud rumbling emanates from Ilistala as she rubs against Xenthos.

Kyalrhin flails about helplessly.

Panicked, you say, "AaaaAAAAaaaaaaaaaahowdogohowdogohowdogo."

Kyalrhin blinks incredulously at you.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard tosses the meat packet down on the ice and watches it slide away, her tail twitching.  Just before it comes to a stop she leaps on it, and the two of them careen onwards as she tears into the meat, purring.

Kyalrhin gives you a firm push.

You have emoted: Gurashi takes a step, his back leg sliding in a different direction. He thrusts out his arms in yet another random set of directions as Kyalrhin shoves him, scooting forward rapidly.

**scoots into new room**

Kyalrhin's ears perk up as her attention turns towards Ilistala, an enormous leopard.

You have emoted: Gurashi lets out a frantic high-pitched "eeee" as he slides onto a different part of the pond.

You yell, "Kyaaalrhiiiiiin!!"

Ilistala, an enormous leopard finishes hear meal, watching Kyalrhin and you. She paces towards you across the ice and gives you a push with her nose, mimicing Kyalrhin.

You have emoted: Gurashi lets out another terrified cry as he slides forward, bending at the waist and wobbling in a desperate attempt to not fall over.

Kyalrhin hides a smile behind her hand, clearly amused by the leopard's mimicking.

Frantic, you say, "PLEASE... DO NOT PUSH... THE BUG..."

Kyalrhin ponders the situation.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard chirps happily as she bounds after you.


Muttering in a barely audible whisper, Kyalrhin Ysav'rai says, "I've never seen a kitty chirp before."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Gurashi has been teaching her."

Louder, terrified, you say, "IlistalaAAAAAA."

Kyalrhin ponders the situation.

Kyalrhin ponders a bag of meat scraps thoughtfully, looking it up and down.

Kyalrhin ponders Ilistala, an enormous leopard thoughtfully, looking her up and down.
A loud rumbling emanates from Ilistala as she rubs against Kyalrhin.

Kyalrhin ponders you thoughtfully, looking you up and down.

Kyalrhin gives a bag of meat scraps to you.

Kyalrhin tilts her head curiously.

You have emoted: Gurashi dramatically begins to run in place, skates clunking on the ice and giving him zero momentum.

You boggle at Kyalrhin.

You boggle at a bag of meat scraps.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard tilts her head curiously at you.

Soft rustling of branches and the whisper of crunching snow betray the presence of wintry animals foraging and thriving unseen.

Kyalrhin nudges Ilistala, an enormous leopard suggestively.

Muttering in a barely audible whisper, Kyalrhin Ysav'rai says to Ilistala, an enormous leopard, "Gurashi's got some meat in his hands!"

Ilistala, an enormous leopard appears enthralled by your attempts to move, reaching out a paw to you. She hesitates a time or two, before pressing the paw against your side, giving you some spin.

You have emoted: Gurashi lets out a pitiful wail as he begins to spin in another direction, leaving hilariously elegant circles on the ice below him.

Spinning still, you exclaim, "Stoooooop!"

Bizirik, the leothin stalks awkwardly out onto the ice, legs occasionally jerking out unexpectedly in different directions. Eventually it reaches Xenthos and stands there, tail wagging slowly.

Kyalrhin takes a spare scarf from her pack, and begins to tie it around your waist. She then skates in a few tight circles, the other end of the scarf in hand, causing the kepheran to spin as well. After a few spins, she tosses the end of the scarf to Bizirik.

You have emoted: Gurashi begins to wave his arms flailingly. "Kyalrhin!" He yelps, "MissKYalRHINwhatAREYOUDOING--".

Kyalrhin raises her hand to her mouth and titters girlishly.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard bounces after the now-flailing bit of scarf, attempting to catch it with her paws.

Bizirik, the leothin catches the scarf, standing perfectly still for a few moments... suddenly, it drops down in a play bow as it sees Ilistala, an enormous leopard approach and begins to run, pulling the scarf - and its occupant - in tow.

You have emoted: Gurashi barely gets a chance to say 'heck' before he is yanked forward by his leothin, a high pitched whistling as he is stiffly dragged by his skates after it.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard chases after!

***room room zoomies LOL***

Bizirik, the leothin continues to skitter across the ice, panting loudly as it continues to pull the scarf, looking back at Ilistala, an enormous leopard as if it were some great game. Gurashi manages to do his one job correctly - not fall down.

Bizirik, the leothin looks back at Ilistala, an enormous leopard again, chittering and thrumming loudly. Suddenly it loses its footing, wiping out violently on the ice and falling arse over head and releasing the scarf in the process. As it comes to rest in a heap, the kepheran skates by full speed, arms flailing.

Bizirik, the leothin snorts.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "HOWDOISTOOOOO--."

Kyalrhin's ears perk up with a sudden interest.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard continues chasing after you, ignoring Bizirik. Suddenly she leaps, paws outstretches she barrels into your back.

You have emoted: Gurashi yips in surprise as he is suddenly tackled by Ilistala, an enormous leopard, the two of them hitting the ice before sliding into the edge of the pond and finding a snowdrift, disappearing into it.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard sits upon you, purring loudly as she rubs her nose against your face.

Kyalrhin kneels down by the fallen kepheran, grabbing a fistful of snow that had accrued on the ice. She packs it into a loose, messy ball and proceeds to drop it atop your head, fully taking advantage of his helplessness. Some of the snow also lands on Ilistala's nose.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard jerks her head back in surprise, and then loudly sneezes.

Bizirik, the leothin stands up slowly, shaking itself off. It leans forward, aggressively licking the spot where it hit the ice, thrumming softly.

Kyalrhin gives a bag of meat scraps to Bizirik, the leothin.

You have emoted: Gurashi groans inside the snowdrift, managing to clear just enough snow from his face to get a snowball to the head.

Kyalrhin pats you in a friendly manner.

You have emoted: Gurashi barely manages to lift his head, shuddering from the packed on snow and ice. "...so... have come to decision, about how feel about ice skating..."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "It looks like you are having fun."

Subtly glittering with cold moonlight, the snow gleams icily from sparse bright points of radiance.

You have emoted: Gurashi tries to sit up again, but is held down by the impressive weight of Ilistala, an enormous leopard. "...hello, did you have fun?" He asks the leopard, dazed.

Bizirik, the leothin takes a few limping steps before its gait returns to normal, plodding awkwardly across the ice to join the rest.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard nods enthusiastically. She bounds off of your chest and circles back to the ice, looking back at you hopefully.

Muttering in a barely audible whisper, Kyalrhin Ysav'rai says, "I'm surprised she finds your carapace to be comfortable... but we are on something a fair bit harder."

Hushed and sombre, quiet descends with the evening, only the moonlight and glistening snow to dazzle and intrigue amidst the stillness.

When you does not move quickly enough for her tastes, Ilistala, an enormous leopard dashes back and drags you back onto the ice by a leg.

You have emoted: Gurashi groans, sitting up as Ilistala climbs off of him. Before he can get to his feet, he lets out a terrified yip as he is yanked by the boot back onto the ice. "WAIT!"

Ilistala, an enormous leopard pauses upon the ice, staring at you, your boot still in her mouth.

Little plumes of mist puff beneath your nose with every exhale of breath, visible against the dark of night as frozen wisps.

You have emoted: Gurashi grimaces, trying to pull his boot free. "Let gooooo," He begs.

Kyalrhin scritches Bizirik along its jawline, then scratches along its back slowly to to spot that it had fallen upon. She briefly examines it, then nods to herself and turns her attention back to the antics of the kephera and leopard.

Bizirik, the leothin lolls its head back as it is looked over, thrumming and purring louder in Kyalrhin's direction. Once released and given a clean bill of health, it presses itself to the woman's side roughly, making her scoot.

Trying to grab the ice, you say to Ilistala, an enormous leopard, "Please!"

Kyalrhin hurriedly grasps as the leothin, but too late... she tumbles down on the ice, having lost her balance. She sits up, pouting fiercely at Bizirik, before givint it a pat on one of its feet.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard releases your boot and sits down, staring.

Hushed and sombre, quiet descends with the evening, only the moonlight and glistening snow to dazzle and intrigue amidst the stillness.

Midnight shadows coalesce around a new day, and Mother Night embraces the land in utter darkness.
It is now the 17th of Shanthin, 548 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 6 days until the New Moon

Bizirik, the leothin lets out an apologetic little whine, plodding over and extending its neck to offer assistance, tail slapping the ice behind it.

You have emoted: Gurashi plants one foot on the ice, and then the other, shoving himself to his feet. He wobbles, arms out in front of him, before he steadies himself, staring blankly ahead.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "...O-K ..."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "O-K can do this..."

Kyalrhin wobbles unsteadily to her feet, using the leothin's sturdy back for a brace. She scritches it below its jawbone again, and offers some fish scraps as a treat.

Kyalrhin tilts her head curiously at you.

Bizirik, the leothin perks up at the fish, taking them eagerly and standing still as Kyalrhin rights herself, slorping and chomping the heads in a rather disgusting manner.

You have emoted: Gurashi stands up straight, exhaling. "This is fun... " He finally admits, then rubs his back. "And painful."

You have emoted: Gurashi reaches out, planting his hands on Ilistala, an enormous leopard's back. "Are definitely having most fun, yes," He comments to the big cat, patting her fondly.

Kyalrhin notices the scarf still wrapped about your waist... and smiles angelically at you while sidling closer.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Lady Haruspex Rancoura So'hthae, Ole'noc Caihel, "Lady Rancoura! Daem ... is unable to attend the event to read his story! Do have many other story tellers??"

Rancoura tells you, "Mm, I had intended to simply call for them after we have gathered around the fire, much as you have done with the design contests."

Ilistala, an enormous leopard purrs loudly again as she nuzzles against you ... but she keeps one eye on Kyalrhin's approach, seeming almost eager for more mayhem.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Lady Haruspex Rancoura So'hthae, Ole'noc Caihel, "Ah! O-K, whew! Am--**Suddenly a squawking cicada noise... silence across the aetherways ... an apologetic chittering** O-O-K, know will be wonderful...event ... oomph."

Floating innocently, a glistening snowflake twinkles with frigid allure.

You have emoted: Gurashi sighs loudly, straightening again and examining his feet. "O-K. If move one leggy, then other leggy sort of follows..."

Kyalrhin sidles closer... closer... then unties the scarf and wraps it about your shoulders instead. "All fun in moderation, perhaps." However, she does dangle one end of the scarf enticingly before Ilistala's eyes.

Rancoura tells you, "Are you quite well, little one?"

Ilistala, an enormous leopard stares at the dangling scarf for a few moments, head tilting back and forth, before she starts to bat at it with her paws.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Lady Haruspex Rancoura So'hthae, Ole'noc Caihel, "**A pained whistle** Oh, uh, yes... am l-learning how to ice skate... !"

Rancoura tells you, "...Ah. That sounds a rather challenging endeavour."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Lady Haruspex Rancoura So'hthae, Ole'noc Caihel, "You should come try it if have time before festival!! Was all stressed about tonight but then came here and am in too much pain to be worried about now!!"

Rancoura tells you, "As tempting an invitation as that is, little one, there are still many preparations upon my list. Do enjoy yourself, however."

You have emoted: Gurashi glances down, noticing the scarf at last. He gasps, scrambling to untie it from himself. "Ah!" He exclaims, unwinding it and throwing it aside.

Watching the scarf fall, you exclaim, "Begone!!"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Lady Haruspex Rancoura So'hthae, Ole'noc Caihel, "O-K! Will be here for a while - let know if want a lesson in near future!!"

Kyalrhin raises her hand to her mouth and titters girlishly.

You have emoted: Gurashi peets at Kyalrhin, then Ilistala, an enormous leopard, huffing. <--damn typo

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Are trying to make first ice skating experience mean?!"

You flail about helplessly.

Kyalrhin return's your peets. <--KYALRHIIIIN

You have emoted: Gurashi gasps as his flailing arms nearly send him off balance.

Muttering in a barely audible whisper, Kyalrhin Ysav'rai says, "Of course not, Gurashi. You're just really fun to tweak, all parties here seem to agree upon this fact."

You stare implacably at Kyalrhin.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Kyalrhin, "...tweak..."

Kyalrhin chirps happily at you.

You have emoted: Gurashi's antennae twitch.

After a pause, you say, "....does that mean praaaank!?"

Kyalrhin tweak's your twitching antennae.

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly grabs Kyalrhin's arms with his smaller hands, pushing off of Ilistala, an enormous leopard's back and sending the both of them spinning backwards. "Eeeee!!" He screeches, still clinging to Kyalrhin's arms.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard appears to be quite enjoying the spinning.

You have emoted: Gurashi bursts into laughing as he spins, refusing to release Kyalrhin's arms. "Can tweak-y too!" He yells over the spinning, though they are beginning to slow.

Bizirik, the leothin's tail slaps against the ice happily, licking its snout and chittering to itself.

Kyalrhin clutches maybe a little desperately at the preferred baby buggy hands, a bit uncertain of her footing as she attempts to stretch her leg out slowing the velocity of the spinning duo. A tiny, "meep", could be heard as a look of unusual concentration settles itself upon the human's face.

You have emoted: Gurashi continues to laugh as they eventually spin to a stop, finally letting go and awkwardly walking back with wide, clunky steps. He waves his arms, managing to stay upright. "O-K. Am liking it more. But, also feel little bit like might throw up."

You click your mandibles together energetically, chittering to yourself.

Muttering in a barely audible whisper, Kyalrhin Ysav'rai says, "See? Tweaking is fun."

Ilistala, an enormous leopard tilts her head curiously at you.

You have emoted: Gurashi nods rapidly at Kyalrhin, clearly out of breath, clouds of steam rising from his mouth every second or so.

You have emoted: Gurashi waves his arms in Xenthos's direction, swaying on his feet. "Skaaaate!" He encourages, making twirling gestures with his fingers.

Kyalrhin pats you, then scritches his mandibles and offers you some eggs as a treat.

You blink.

Laughingly at the eggs, you say to Kyalrhin, "Uh - no thank you!"

A wandering bard mumbles something about you taking too long and wanders off, determined to find her own way.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard stares in confusion at the bard.

Kyalrhin shrugs, then offers the eggs to Bizirik.

Bizirik, the leothin awkwardly stomps its way over to Gurashi, legs raising way too high and sliding with each step. The effort is applaudable, really, and quite hilarious to watch.

(Market): Shaddus says, "As a general reminder, the upcoming sermon on the Lord Machine will be held at the upcoming weaving. Most are invited."

You stare blankly into space.

(Market): Xenthos says, "And, of course, there is much happening in the Glomdoring at the weave for all who are not enemies."

(Market): You say, "So many options!"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Prelate Shaddus Trueflight, of the Broken Teeth, "Ehm, many apologies for poor timing! Have had this event planned for a couple years, otherwise would adjust time!"

You have emoted: Gurashi dusts himself off, casually glancing to the watch in his pocket. He chitters softly, thoughtful.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Month two of Festival will begin shortly..."

Faintly buzzing, you ask Kyalrhin, "Are sticking around?"

Faintly buzzing, you ask Xenthos, "And you?"

Muttering in a barely audible whisper, Kyalrhin Ysav'rai says, "Yeah, you're my friend after all."

Shaddus tells you, "To the contrary, hold your party. My sermon will not be extremely long."

Muttering in a barely audible whisper, Kyalrhin Ysav'rai says, "If it was anyone else heading it, I probably wouldn't be so... social..."

Kyalrhin shudders violently.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "I better be, the play will not perform itself."

A wry smile spreads across Xenthos's face.

Muttering in a barely audible whisper, Kyalrhin Ysav'rai says, "Oh, I definitely have to see that then."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Prelate Shaddus Trueflight, of the Broken Teeth, "O-K! We will have a party and you can have sermon - everyone happy! If know any friends that aren't enemied to Glomdoring send them over for good stories and musics and food and stuffs."

Ilistala, an enormous leopard stares implacably at you.

You beam broadly.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "It is..."

You have emoted: Gurashi glances at Ilistala, an enormous leopard. "A beautiful play."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Kind of hard to watch sometimes."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "But, beautiful."

Ilistala, an enormous leopard turns her back on Xenthos and pointedly ignores him.

You have emoted: Gurashi carefully scoots back over to Ilistala, an enormous leopard, hugging the leopard tight.

Kyalrhin tilts her head curiously.

Kyalrhin pounces on Ilistala, an enormous leopard, sending Ilistala, an enormous leopard rolling head over heels with her.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard makes a short, surprised noise, disengaging from Kyalrhin. After a moment she chirps happily and pounces back, the two them sliding across the ice as she purrs.

Muttering in a barely audible whisper, Kyalrhin Ysav'rai says, "Sorry to have interrupted your father and son time, however. I'll totter off, and see you again at the festivities."

Kyalrhin hugs Xenthos compassionately.

Kyalrhin hugs you compassionately.

You hug Kyalrhin compassionately.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "It is not an interruption."

Faintly buzzing, you say to Kyalrhin, "No!"

Faintly buzzing, you exclaim to Kyalrhin, "You did not interrupt!"

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "I invited people along."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "I am glad you came."

Faintly buzzing, you exclaim to Kyalrhin, "Am so glad you came! Are one of favorite peoples!"

You beam broadly at Kyalrhin.

You chitter at Kyalrhin with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

Folding her wings so she can reach them easily, Kyalrhin preens her wings happily, straightening out the disheveled feathers.

You blink incredulously at Kyalrhin.

Kyalrhin coughs softly.

Faintly buzzing, you ask Kyalrhin, "....are a changeling?"

You stare implacably at Kyalrhin.

Muttering in a barely audible whisper, Kyalrhin Ysav'rai says, "They are illusory. I can manipulate dreams, and all."

You have emoted: Gurashi stares intently at Kyalrhin, touching his mandibles. "Is that why sometimes..."

You stare implacably at Kyalrhin.

Muttering in a barely audible whisper, Kyalrhin Ysav'rai says, "I manipulate them so well, you can't tell if you are dreaming or seeing reality."

Kyalrhin nods her head sagely.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Kyalrhin, "Wowee..."

Kyalrhin grins mischievously at you.

Quickly, you exclaim to Kyalrhin, "But no dream stuff on me, please!"

You bop Kyalrhin on the head.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Kyalrhin, "Do not like it."

You nod your head at Kyalrhin.

You beam broadly at Kyalrhin.

Kyalrhin rubs her head, murmuring a soft, "ow."

Faintly buzzing, you say to Kyalrhin, "... w-wait, did really hurt?!"

You flail about helplessly.

Faintly buzzing, you exclaim to Kyalrhin, "Am sorry!"

Kyalrhin grins mischievously at you.

Muttering in a barely audible whisper, Kyalrhin Ysav'rai says, "So easy to tweak."

You peer about yourself unscrupulously.

"Nope," Kyalrhin says with finality.

Kyalrhin waves goodbye.

Kyalrhin, riding a fluffy little swan, leaves to the south, emanating an aura of immense power.

Xenthos tilts back his head and inhales deeply while twitching a wolf's snout.

Looking to Xenthos, you ask, "We should probably go too, yes? Get back to Glomdoring?"

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Esei is wandering around."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Should at least find and say hello."

You have emoted: Gurashi scoots a bit aways from Ilistala, an enormous leopard, swaying.

You blink.

You yell, "Eseeeeeeei!"

Esei tells you, "Yes?"

**cue lots of searching!**

You have emoted: Gurashi lets out am oomph as he wipes out unexpectedly, scooting on his butt into the next section of the pond.

(The Shadow Kindred): Xenthos says, "Gurashi use your skates!"

You push off against the ice with a pair of gleaming ice skates and glide towards the east. <--first actual skate command

Gliding smoothly upon a small ball of energy, you feel the soft rush of air passing by as you gracefully arrive at a snow-flecked expanse of icy perfection

<-- found Esei, promptly skated passed Esei lmao

Faintly buzzing, you say, "AhhhhhHHHH."

You have emoted: Gurashi flails as he finds another snowbank.

Smoothly gliding upon the ice, Esei glides in from the west.

Esei stares implacably at a pair of gleaming ice skates.

You have emoted: Gurashi peels himself out of the snow pile, gasping for air. "Wowee!"

Ilistala, an enormous leopard rubs up against Esei, purring like a cat.

Esei pets Ilistala, an enormous leopard ingratiatingly.

Esei tilts their head curiously at you.

You have emoted: Gurashi scrambles back onto his feet, waving his arms to stay aloft.

Excitedly, you exclaim to Esei, "Am skating!"

Faintly buzzing, you ask Esei, "Did a real whole skate just now, did see?"

Esei nods solemnly.

Now facing away from the elfen, you say to Esei, "Have not quite figured out how to stop."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "I don't think it counts until you have done at least three whole skates."

Clunkily turning, you say, "Or ... move so good."

Esei pats you in a friendly manner.

You give a horrified gasp.

You boggle at Xenthos.

Faintly buzzing, you ask Xenthos, "THREE?"

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Three."

Looping and curving back onto their own path, Esei masterfully executes a figure-eight on the ice.
Kicking out a leg, Esei gains momentum for a swift spin, then crouches low to complete their sit-spin manoeuvre.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Esei has it mastered."

Ilistala, an enormous leopard stares implacably at you.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks down at his feet, then up at Ilistala, an enormous leopard, helplessly.

Bizirik, the leothin chirps, awkwardly stomping over to the edge of the pond and walking on the shore, the snow piled halfway up its back.

Looping and curving back on your own path, you masterfully execute a figure-eight on the ice.
You blink.

Esei strikes a pose.

Hands on his head as he skates backwards, you say, "AHHHH."

Loudly, you say, "THE BOOTS BE MAGICAL."

Esei jerks slightly as the air fills with sparkling motes of bright light.
You sense Feoragan pulling on the strands of aether surrounding Esei.

Esei blinks.

Seer Esei of the Ascending Dusk says, "Who is that."

The sweet scent of cherry blossoms wafts through the air as a cavalcade of ivory petals heralds the entrance of Feoragan.

Lifting her head, Ilistala looks at Feoragan hopefully.

Feoragan slips on the slick ice and falls with an unceremonious 'thump.'
Feoragan stands up and stretches his arms out wide.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard follows in your tracks, weaving in a figure-8.

Esei stares implacably at Feoragan.

Feoragan blinks.

Esei shakes their head at Feoragan.

You have emoted: Gurashi finds the snowbank once again, laughing, out of view from the pond.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I've fallen."

You have emoted: Gurashi scrambles back onto the ice a final time, wheezing as he pushes himself up. "Wheeee," He whistles, waving a hello to Feoragan.

The corners of Feoragan's mouth turn up as he grins mischievously.

You kick out a leg to gain momentum then spin swiftly, crouching low into a sitting position you spin with dizzying results then complete the manoeuvre by standing up gracefully.
You realise the ice is too full of other markings to leave your own right now. Try another spot or come back later.

Your eyes bug out as you boggle in amazement.

You have emoted: Gurashi bursts into laughter, skating off into another part of the pond unknowingly.

You have emoted: Gurashi lets out a sudden chittering laugh.

Arms up, you exclaim, "Am back!"

Esei pats you in a friendly manner.

Pushing off of Ilistala again, you say, "And now am gone!"

**skating between rooms wheee***

You click your mandibles together energetically, chittering to yourself.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Ilistala, an enormous leopard, "Am getting better! Am not falling as much."

Skating passed the leopard, you say, "Still do not like wearing the booties."

You think to yourself: Is so fun!

Feoragan romps playfully in circles around you.

Starting to slow down in his skating, you say, "Am getting tired.... legs are soore... in places..."

Scooting forward still, you say, "That did not would be sore in."

You have emoted: Gurashi finds the edge of the ice, sitting on a bench and reaching down to remove the skates.

You remove a pair of gleaming ice skates.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "That was...."

You click your mandibles together energetically, chittering to yourself.

Throwing up his arms, you exclaim, "Fun!"

You have emoted: Gurashi rubs his legs as he stands up, wobbling as he walks. "Oh, whoa."

Faintly buzzing, you ask, "How do leave...?"
Gesturing at the rope here, Tombin, Steward of Solstice says, "Simply pull the rope and you will be able to depart."

As you pull a lavish silk rope, you hear a loud, resonant gonging sound then feel yourself melting away, slowly becoming nothing but mist. Your sense of self becomes light as a feather, now utterly cold and crystalline in perfection. Falling and swimming with an errant breeze you follow, compelled to obey, as the soft sounds of joyous music accompany your flight. When your feet touch ground, you realise you are not where you were...

The Aetherplex Chamber.
The spherical chamber is formed from a hollow geode comprised of dozens of precious gemstones. Large jagged formations of rubies, sapphires, diamonds and emeralds line the walls and ceiling. The floor has been cut and polished to a brilliant shine, revealing concentric circles of brilliant colours. Upon close examination of the glassy floor, shimmering reflections briefly glide across its smooth surface of wondrous mansions and abodes. A current of electricity continuously runs throughout this mineral wonder, causing tiny sparks to erratically blossom up and down the crystalline formations. Hidden deep within the environment lies a mystic pathway. Shimmering with aetheric energy, a bright glowing portal floats here in midair. Hackles risen, a fierce timberwolf prowls about here. A screech owl is here, surveying the surroundings. There are 2 great brindle mastiffs here. A giant bat hangs here, wings folded about its body and one beady eye open. Shara-Mae Dven'tur, a clumsy assistant, is standing here nervously scribbling upon a notebook. A leopard lurks in the shadows, curiously watching anything that moves. You see a sign here instructing you to use the PORTAL command to enter the aetherplex system. There is an aetherways portal here.
You see exits leading north (open door), south, out, and through a bright, glowing portal.

Your eyes bug out as you boggle in amazement.

You give a short gasp of elation.

Faintly buzzing, you exclaim, "That was fun! Do want to go back soon!!"