Farewell to Winter: Serenwilde's Festival

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon, "Ah ... is too, uh... early?"

Lief tells you, "No, no, not at all! We begin in less than a quarter-day. I will shout very soon about it!"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon, "O-K. Uhm, have some food that will bring."

Lief tells you, "Oh, that is wonderful! Please do!"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon, "...do not have to be skyclad right."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon, "Said that did not have to be skyclad but other peoples might be right."

Lief tells you, "Right! I'm wearing a dress, myself!"

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

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon, "O-K."

Skarde sways back and forth.

Ilistala, an enormous leopard sways back and forth.

You sway back and forth.

Skarde nods his head at you.

LOOK ME
He is a compound-eyed kephera wyrden demigod. He looks imposing at first glance, standing nearly two meters high with a black chitinous exoskeleton and broad blood-orange thorax. His bulbous red eyes sit on either side of his wedge-shaped head, and a small pair of stunted antennae protrude from atop his skull, looking broken. Where his mouth would be sits a small pair of jagged mandibles. Two sets of spiny orange arms are affixed to his torso, the top set of which are long and thewy while the second are spindly and pulled close to his chest. A long abdomen hangs down to his knees and is angled away from his back, ribbed in full black bands with small orange flecks throughout. Evidence of conflict mar his once shiny carapace, with the occasional crack and abrasion clearly visible. His legs are long and covered in thick orange plates with tiny black spines tracing down the back of his calves, ending in small segmented dual-toed feet. Set on either side of his lower back are two delicate orbs that whistle and click as he breathes. Two pairs of veiny, translucent wings looking far too small for his body size hang stiffly from his back. Despite initially appearing intimidating, his demeanor is subdued, the smaller set of hands laced together tightly. Tattooed on his hands is an illustration of a bumblebee constellation.
He is wearing:
a Glomdoring friendship bracelet
a clover-etched opal ring
a mottled bloodstone watch barely sticking out of his right breast pocket
a bat ring of insidious shadows
a beryl ring grasped by an opal hand
a spider ring of subtle manipulation
an interlocking bracelet of blackened kephera chitin striated with shades of indigo
a nacreous baroque-pearl beetle brooch clipped securely to his hat
a leather explorer's hat
an embroidered mantle of flickering hope
an ebon necklace bound with a shadowfire gem
a delicate forestal cloak of frayed silk
a leather vest of chaotic shadows
the Fingerblade of dha'Wyrden-cree.

Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon echoes, "The wheel of seasons turns for us all, and spring has entered its very last month! Serenwilde will be hosting a bonfire dance and feast, open to all of the Basin who maintain the peace here on our grounds. Please teleport directly to me if you would like to join us in celebration!"

You blink.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Oh - and, there it is..."

Esei tilts their head curiously.

Esei begins to follow you.

Faintly buzzing, you ask Xenthos, "Ready?"

Ilistala, an enormous leopard inches bashfully over to you and nuzzles you tenderly.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon, "Will be there momentarily!"

You pet Ilistala, an enormous leopard ingratiatingly.
A loud rumbling emanates from Ilistala as she rubs against you.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist smiles and says, "Have fun."

You nod your head sagely.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Xenthos, "Will report back when am done!"

You chirp happily.

You give a fresh platter of centaur blood pudding to Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Xenthos, "Can eat that one."

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

The lingering notes of harmonic purity swell to impossible heights as you step confidently through the song of reality itself.
Esei follows you ether.

Enclosed clearing.
There is a moderate breeze here. Sweet briar rose bushes line the outskirts of this large clearing, which holds a number of wide, flat stones in the centre, covered in swirling, abstract designs. The stones set up a slightly raised platform, many yards across, on which dances and rituals can be held, the ridged designs on the surface allowing for secure grip even in wet conditions. Swathes of ground-cover, ivies and grasses interspersed with wildflowers, grow out from the edges of the stones, harbouring insects and small animals that dash away at the slightest provocation. In the distance, tall birch trees loom high, their whorled bark watching over all with a still grace. A pair of fallen trees form a makeshift but sturdy bench here. Resting upon the stones here is a massive, crackling bonfire from which a wild fragrance rises. Reaching up as high as the eye can see looms the awesome presence of a living totem. A sweet fondue platter has been left here. There are 10 platters of roasted root vegetables with wild herbs here. There are 9 platters of edible blossoms and forest fruit drizzled with honeyed sap here. There are 11 platters of wine-braised chicken here. A cookie shaped like a coiled, beaming caterpillar lies here, slathered in green icing. There are 9 stag weed cookies here. There are 9 burning magnolia macaron cookies here. Piercing through the soil with its thin stem, a gold-and-red Hornsmen's iris scents the air with an earthy perfume. A gold and black phoenix perches here, her fiery plumage illuminating the area with white flames. A plump wild rabbit hops playfully around here. Busy Bee Llani Myeras, Springtime Portent is here. She wields a wooden palette shield resounding with colourful corruption in her left hand and a mystic cudgel in her right hand. Geochemist Uzriel i'Xiia hovers in midair, borne upon a bank of sickly, coiling black smog. There is a burning illusory eye floating darkly over him. He wields a magnum blastworks in his left hand. Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon stands here in a faint breeze of rustling leaves and birdsong. A jet-black malevolent demon crouches here, red eyes burning upon the canvas of the darkest night. Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi is here. They wield Gauntlets of Whispers in their left hand and a great shield embossed with dancing dracnari in their right hand. Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon stands here, flanked by an indistinct entourage of ancestral spirits. Millien Myeras is here.
You see exits leading north, east, and south.

Tsakali's eyes sparkle with amusement.

You blink.

You see the following people here:
Llani, Uzriel, Shango, Lief, Tsakali, Elexia, Esei, Millien, Gurashi.

Uzriel chuckles long and heartily.

A sense of warm serenity settles upon the surroundings as Daraius, riding a tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings, strides in from the north.

Elexia raises a hand in greeting to the newcomers, bowing her head. "Well met, children of Night and Crow, thank you for coming to celebrate the end of the season with us," she chimes.

Esei inclines their head politely to Elexia.

You have emoted: Gurashi clears his throat upon his arrival, glancing quickly about the clearing with wide eyes.

Esei blinks slowly.

Startled, you say to Elexia, "Oh, er - many greetings."

Lief wings about merrily, her white dress and dark body paint illuminated by a fragrant, crackling bonfire's dancing, changing lights. "Welcome in peace, welcome in merriment!"

You chitter at Lief with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

Visionary Esei of the Ascending Dusk says, "Technically, I am a child of Crow, and Gurashi is a follower of Lady Mahalla and the Shadowbeat."

With a quick beat of her wings, Millien cautiously circles the area and studies her surroundings.
Llani bounces up and down on her toes, waving to the newcomers. "Welcome, welcome to the dance!" She says with a broad smile.

Esei coughs softly.

Visionary Esei of the Ascending Dusk says, "Not Crow, but rather Mother Night."

Daraius dips his bewhiskered canid muzzle politely to the assembled crowd, taking a moment to survey the diverse faces.

Tsakali gives a trillingly melodic laugh.

You have emoted: Gurashi perks up upon hearing Lief's voice, plodding over to her and offering a small platter adorned with desserts. "Uh." He shrugs his shoulders. "Brought foods."

Bright crescents of flame flash and flicker from the bonfire, occasionally tipped with hints of soft blue and moonlit silver.

Soft steps precede the entrance of Binky Tailsnap from the north.

Humming softly, Duethielle Ladrennbenn enters from the north.

Resting her hand beneath her chin, Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon says to Esei, "I see, my apologies then, for the mistake. I am a Spiritsinger by trade myself, but I count myself a daughter of Moon and Stag all the same. I may not draw on their powers especially, but I revere them as spirits of the wood."

With a slow nod to Elexia, Esei shows their understanding.

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi says to Lief something unintelligible in a flowing and fiery rhythm.

Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon smiles and says to Esei, "But I am happy to call you by whatever you prefer, of course."

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi says to Lief, "I may need to bring someone here."

You give 8 platters of smiling bees to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon.

Entranced by you, Llani emits a long "Ooooh."

Visionary Esei of the Ascending Dusk says to Elexia, "I am an Augur myself and thus follow the teachings of all the Hallowed."

You give 20 iridescent peacock cookies to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon.

Lief accepts the treats with a grateful smile, and carefully, she arranges them about with the others.

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

Busy Bee Llani Myeras, Springtime Portent exclaims to you, "You've brought bees!"

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "I will return with a friend."

Lief nods her head enthusiastically at Tsakali.

Tsakali turns translucent and then vanishes, leaving behind a cloud of sparkling motes of light.

Lord Daraius Shevat, Minister of Cultural Affairs asks Lief, "You'll forgive my ignorance, comrade, I hope. May I ask what is the occasion?"

Primarch Shango D'Cente, Dark Animus of the Machine says, "Palm sigil, very important."

You have emoted: Turning to look at Llani, Gurashi nods, mandibles clicking. "Oh, yes!"

Shango sets about digging a deep hole. He is forced to occasionally stop and rest, so difficult is the work. Finally, the hole is done, and he places a palm sigil inside of it, then fills the hole back in.

You see the following people here:
Uzriel, Llani, Lief, Millien, Elexia, Daraius, Esei, Shango, Gurashi.

Esei inclines their head politely to Duethielle Ladrennbenn.
Distracted, Duethielle Ladrennbenn gazes away into the distance.

Tilting her head curiously, Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon says to Esei, "An Augur? I admit I have not heard of this station, nor the Hallowed which you speak. I would like to learn more, sometime."

Lief finds a leaf to set each cookie upon, though she pauses to beam at Daraius. "Absolutely, of course! We celebrate springtime, and Vestian, the very last month of spring."

Airily, Duethielle Ladrennbenn says to you, "Hello..." She hums a few notes to herself, "Hmm hmmmm.."

Esei inclines their head politely to Elexia.

The bonfire flares suddenly, the flames burning into your sight. In the aftervision, you see the shape of a bright hart, antlers flickering.

Esei blinks slowly.

Uzriel inclines his head politely to those around him.

Shango swivels his ears about, trying to focus on some errant sound.

"How charming," Daraius observes, earnestly. "Is it an annual celebration, then?"

You have emoted: Gurashi quickly bows his head upon realizing Llani's state of dress laces his hands together and nodding to himself. "Also, am born under bumblebee so. Like bees," He says to the ground.

With a beaming smile, Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon says to Daraius, "Many of us gathered in this same place to plant seeds of hope, of dreams, of promises and vows on the first of Kiani. We celebrate and work toward seeing these promises come to fruition now as well."

You see the following people here:
Llani, Uzriel, Daraius, Lief, Shango, Elexia, Millien, Esei, Gurashi.

"Oh, goodness, not on quite this scale!" Lief laughs with merry delight. "But we all honour the turning of the seasons in our own ways."

Daraius observes Lief's expression carefully, unable to keep a semblance of a smile from creeping over his own canine features at the explanation.

You twiddle your thumbs.

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

Tsakali nods their head emphatically.

Primarch Shango D'Cente, Dark Animus of the Machine says, "I'm mostly just going to watch, not much of a dancer I fear."

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "Here we.."

Tsakali ponders the situation.

Peeking up just long enough to see, you say to Tsakali, "Many greetings."

Tsakali nods their head at you.

Pointing at his hands, Duethielle Ladrennbenn says to you, "I like bumblebees..."

Esei nods their head at Tsakali.

You blink.

Voice muffled by his mask, Geochemist Uzriel i'Xiia says, "Dancing is also not really for me, but I am quite interested to watch."

"Ahah!" Tsakali exclaims triumphantly.

Tsakali grins mischievously at the Liar.

Millien blinks.

Tilting her antlered head, finishing with the last cookie's arrangement, Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon says to Shango, "Are you certain? This won't be stately ballroom dancing. There are no wrong steps to take."

Esei blinks.

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi says to Lief, "This is my friend, the Liar."

Shango lifts his eyebrow slightly, curious.

The Liar offers a soft, shy smile, but avoids eye contact, mumbling an awkward greeting.

Daraius's eyes sparkle behind the lenses of a pair of thin spectacles.

You have emoted: Gurashi turns slowly, lifting his head to look towards Duethielle Ladrennbenn. A momentary look of surprise overtakes his face, followed by curiosity. "Are bumblebee as well?"

LOOK DUETHIELLE
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.
Duethielle Ladrennbenn looks to be crushingly strong.

LOOK BINKY
A mouse-kin of average height and gentle spirit, Binky Tailsnap looks about himself with bright and curious eyes. His fur is soft and well brushed, with whiskers extending like a fan from his small, pink nose. He wears a supple leather jerkin, its colour slightly darker brown, and matching breeches ending in tiny feet enclosed in a pair of well-worked moccasins. His hands bear remarkably agile and slender fingers, which are often clasped together or twirling his whiskers in thought. Draping behind him, a flexible, ropy tail curls from side to side to accentuate Binky's movements.
Binky Tailsnap looks to be crushingly strong.

Esei inclines their head politely to the Liar.

Daraius dips his bewhiskered canid muzzle politely to the Liar.

LOOK LIAR
Radiant gold and inky black compete for prominence in the thick fur that covers this enormous tae'dae's body, the well-groomed hair shifting like fields of wheat and clouds through the night sky with each movement. Despite their thick limbs and ten feet of height, an aura of well-being and contentment radiates off of their body, only enhanced by the gentle smile that is nearly always present on their muzzle. Glittering mis-matched eyes, one brown and one green, stare with a gentle warmth at the world around them, only inches below a pair of fuzzy round ears that have several notches missing from them. A brilliant red hieroglyph crackles in the centre of their forehead, flaring occasionally with small tendrils of red lightning. They are simply dressed in a pair of linen trousers and a hooded vest of the same material which hangs loose and casually upon their frame. The only decoration to be found upon them are a small number of scales and feathers that have been hand-sewn to cover where their heart lies in their chest.
The Liar is quite powerful.

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi whispers to the Liar, "There's a lot of random people here, so let me know if you get uncomfortable."

Lief's ears twitch, and she directs her attention to Tsakali and the Liar. "Greetings and welcome," she says, her voice touched with curiosity. "Is your name truly 'The Liar', if I may ask?"

A freezing cold fills the air as blood-coloured fog spills from a gap in the air. The form of Kailanna manifests within.

You smile softly at Duethielle Ladrennbenn.
Duethielle Ladrennbenn hums softly to herself.

Daraius listens very carefully for the Liar's answer.

The Liar nods their head quickly towards Lief, "Yes, that is what I am known as."

Llani slowly fans her broad bee wings through the air. "Bumbleebees are really wonderful, aren't they? They help everything around them grow and flourish, but aren't afraid to lay down their lives when they must! Everything I aspire to me." She says with a broad smile.

Millien scratches her head looking for an idea.

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

Among the sparkling motes of light, a translucent figure appears in the air and then quickly solidifies as Feoragan comes into view.
==== Feoragan teleported to you ====

Silvanos sways back and forth.

Feoragan romps playfully about the room.

(Trasto): You say, "Pretty NPC talked to me *starry eyed*."

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi says to Lief, "The Liar is a priest in training for the Lord and Lady and Neither, Shofet Mysrai."

Feoragan peers at Tsakali unscrupulously.

Binky Tailsnap flicks his ears and sniffs the air cautiously, looking around at all those gathered.

Esei nudges Feoragan suggestively.

Tilting his head to examine the liar, Geochemist Uzriel i'Xiia says, "I am, disappointed to find that logically the answer could only be truthful. And not in fact a lie."

With a flash of purple and red wings, Elexia hops into the air and begins to hover about two feet above the ground. She flits over to the nearby arrangement of food and happily picks up the platter. She spirits it away to the fireside and begins to eat without hesitation.

Feoragan romps playfully in circles around Binky Tailsnap.
Binky Tailsnap clasps his tiny hands together.

"Heh heh heh" Silvanos chuckles.

"Hiya!" Feoragan says to Binky Tailsnap with a happy smile.

Binky Tailsnap's ears perk up with a sudden interest.

Comprehension dawns across Lief's features, and she flashes a smile for both Tsakali and the Liar. "Lies are an interesting thing," she notes.

Esei tilts their head curiously.

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi says to the Liar, "This is Lief. I'm not sure what they do in Serenwilde, but they announce a lot of things and they're interesting."

The Liar rubs their arm with the opposite paw awkwardly, attempting to look less conspicuous. "Thank you for inviting us."

Daraius's ears fall back against his head and his eyes dim.

Feoragan takes a deep breath, and his very presence seems to brighten.

Shango idly twitches his tail.

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

Silvanos lazily draws their wings to and fro through the air, fanning them slowly.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "Tiny mouse!"

Laughing a bit, Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon says to Tsakali, "I just talk an awful lot."

"Heh heh heh" Silvanos chuckles.

Nao chirps happily at you.

Raising a hand to the Liar even as her other holds a roasted herb, Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon says, "We are happy to have you here. Please, eat and relax and celebrate with us."

Tsakali stands next to the Liar supportively, investigating the food on the ground.

A sudden gale sweeps across the area, stirring dust and plucking at clothing as Skarde steps out of the winds themselves.

Esei inclines their head to the newest arrivals.

Holding his tail in his hands, Binky Tailsnap says to Feoragan, "I prefer mouse-kin, if you please."

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "A tiny mouse-kin!"

Esei pats Feoragan in a friendly manner.

Tsakali ponders the situation.

The Liar's round ears perk up as they hear mention of food, and nerves are temporarily overpowered as they stare down with a watering mouth at the wide spread.

Silvanos licks their lips.

Tsakali ponders the situation.

You have emoted: Gurashi lets out a nervous little chirp, then awkwardly turns away from Duethielle Ladrennbenn to look towards the commotion coming from the nearby clearing.

You think to yourself: Who is that?

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi whispers to the Liar, "Anything look interesting in particular?"

You think to yourself: Was not paying attention....

Lief's beaming smile might just split her face in twain as she dips down to retrieve her drum and drummer. Several similar instruments are arranged about - certainly not enough for everybody, but enough, perhaps for those who might be interested.

You think to yourself: ...she looks familiar.

You blink.

Noticing the drums, you ask Lief, "Ah - may I...?"

The Liar exclaims, "It all looks good, friend. I am not sure where to start!"

Lief nods her antlered head eagerly toward you. "Please do!"

Daraius follows the Liar with an interested and bewildered gaze, but remains quiet as his ears swivel towards the musicians.

Tsakali gives a platter of edible blossoms and forest fruit drizzled with honeyed sap to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon.

Tsakali clears their throat.

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi says to Lief, "Sorry, wrong person. Enjoy that though."

Elexia finishes munching on her roasted vegetables, taking care to brush off her hands before joining Lief and you by the instruments. "Aye, let us make beautiful music of the seasons!" she says with a dramatic wave of her hand.

Lief grins mischievously at Tsakali.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn hums tunefully and randomly wanders around the bonfire, dancing with herself, her long, white braid swaying.

Lief's wings carry her up higher. She is not drumming yet, but she raises her drumming stick as though to draw attention to her.

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

Esei ponders Binky Tailsnap thoughtfully, looking him up and down.
Binky Tailsnap clasps his tiny hands together.

Silvanos sways back and forth.

Llani plucks the little doughy bees one by one off a platter of smiling bees, nibbling on them as she waits for the festivities to properly begin.

Esei tilts their head and listens intently to Lief.

The Liar laughs a bright sound sweet as honey as they settle down to a sitting position and begin to gingerly pick into a platter of edible blossoms and forest fruit.

Your eyes creep towards Shango as you deeply inhale his musk-laden scent.

Esei peers at Shango unscrupulously.

Esei's hands begin to glow with scalding warmth and they passes them over the surface of Shango's body, removing the musk oil covering him.

Silvanos ponders Shango thoughtfully, looking him up and down.

A look of sweetest innocence overtakes Esei.

Tsakali sits themself down.

Shango lifts his eyebrow slightly, curious.

You have emoted: Gurashi swings his arms back and forth once, stretching nervously as he finds a nearby drum that's more akin to his size. Using his second set of hands to hold the drum near to his chest, he tests the skin carefully with the side of his hand, mindful not to be too distracting.

In a slightly glum tone, Millien Myeras says to Elexia, "I'm gonna go study more.."

Millien gives Elexia a friendly squeeze.

Shango snaps his fingers and warm water showers down upon Esei, who scrubs under their armpits until they are squeaky clean.

Esei hums innocently to themself.

Millien leaves to the south.

Beaming, Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon exclaims, "Hello, everyone, and welcome!"

Visionary Esei of the Ascending Dusk says to Shango, "I can do that all by myself, good sir."
Feoragan coughs softly.

Tridemon glances around briefly, eyes lingering on a few select individuals, until abruptly focusing on Duethielle. The intensity of his focus is somewhat unnerving for a short moment, before he blinks.

Daraius swivels his ears towards Lief, listening with rapt attention.

Primarch Shango D'Cente, Dark Animus of the Machine smiles with a wink and says, "One good deed deserves in kind."

Crackles and snaps issue from the bonfire here as swirls of glowing motes rise into the air.

You have emoted: Gurashi glances up towards Duethielle Ladrennbenn as she passes by, head tilting.

Esei tilts their head and listens intently to Lief.

You think to yourself: ...know her, think.

You think to yourself: Was ... oh where did see.

Lief speaks loudly, even for a faeling, her normally lilting voice firm, words clear and enunciated. "Welcome to our Spring Festival's closing ceremonies. I thought that, given how everywhere else like their galas and their balls, we might show them how to party the Seren way!"

You smile softly at Lief.

LOOK LIEF
Flowering vines wreathe the antlers which crown this faeling's head, adorning her with perpetual springtime no matter the season. Though she is a nimble faeling blossoming demigoddess, she appears otherwise mundane at first glance. With a boyish, twiggy figure that's taller than average and a sprightly, ruddy pixie haircut, she might be androgynous were it not for her softer features. Large, inquisitive gray eyes sit beneath strong and expressive brows, while a small, upturned nose wears the same proud constellation of freckles which scatters across her healthy, rounded cheeks. Pert and peach-stained lips lift into a natural smile unless some greater emotion temporarily seizes them. The wings which sprout from her back are not a butterfly's, but a dragonfly's, their long, limpid shapes occasionally glimmering with opalescence in the ambient light. Streaks and handprints of dusky green paint splatter her face and body, contrasting her youthful white dress with the stains of ancestral tradition. A lush fragrance dances about her as she stands awash in the wild, prismatic colours of a truefavour from Maylea, Bloom of Serenity.
She is wearing:
a silver moonflower circlet
a charm bracelet of prismatic crystal orchids chiming with the movement of her arm
a slender snapdragon ring
a frosted thistle blossom pendant hanging from a thin silvery chain
a slender midnight orchid ring
a translucent crystal bindi faintly illuminating her brow with prismatic colours
a vine-woven bone necklace
a soft white dress of delicate eyelet lace
the Flame of dae'Seren hanging from her wrist, its blossom held there by the silver chain wrapping her forearm.

Silvanos starts to retreat into themselves as they are getting overwhelmed by the numbers of people here.

Elexia makes a very picky display of trying this drum and that first, testing each in turn before settling on one made for faeling hands. She takes it in her hands and rises on her sunset wings until she is slightly to the left of Lief, and about a foot lower. She waits, swaying slightly in the air with anticipation.

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi whispers to the Liar, "Look, it's Silvanos. I wonder if she'd sit with us?"

Silvanos smiles softly at Tsakali.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "Most people don't pluralise ball in that way for a reason."

Esei nods their head at Xis.

Her voice filled with merriment, Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon says, "Today, we bid farewell to spring and welcome summer. We dance and feast and sing and laugh and love, joined with the spirits of the Forest and our ancestors."

Esei nudges Feoragan suggestively.

Silvanos snickers softly to themself.

Silvanos hugs Xis compassionately.

Lief turns her bright-eyed gaze toward the bonfire, watching it flicker and spark with hungry intent. "Nature isn't just something pretty for us to conserve. It, the First Forest, is life itself in perfect balance."

Xis gives the world a thumbs up.

Tsakali pats the ground next to them, nudging Silvanos with an extended leg.

Gesturing toward the earth below her, Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon says, "It is earth steady beneath our feet, like we are earth in flesh and form."

Motioning toward the sky, Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon says, "It is water raining down around us and carving rivers like veins throughout its body, like our blood and waters within."

After drawing a long breath in, then releasing it, Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon says, "It is air, the wind which shakes the trees, scattering seeds and spreading life further and wider. Our breath, like the wind, sustains and carries us."

Esei murmurs softly to themself.

You have emoted: Gurashi lifts his head to listen, though keeps his gaze on his drum, squeezing the instrument gingerly.

Binky Tailsnap listens to Lief with rapt attention, his body almost quivering with the effort.

Stretching her hand toward the burning pyre, Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon says, "It is fire cleansing the forest, burning away old growth to fertilize for the new, as hot as our bodies are warm, moving just as our passions push us to action, growing, reaping, and sowing."

Tsakali smiles softly.

Silvanos shuffles their feet uneasily as they consider if they wish to join Tsakali and The Liar or if they want to flee the gathering.

You think to yourself: Gardeners ...

Lief taps her wooden drummer to her heart. "And it is the spirit, mostly Awakened, though some may rest dormant yet - just like our spirits, too, rise up for our ancestors and our dreams for the future."

Lief bows her antlered head in brief but silent contemplation, then looks up. "We've already said farewell to so much, so let's not think of this as yet another parting. Let's dance. In defiance of Delosidir's dark wishes, let's dance. To celebrate the ancient ways of Serynwodenhillirim and all the land, let's dance."

Esei nods their head at Silvanos.

Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon exclaims, "To embrace the sorrows and endless joys of life, let's dance!"

Silvanos folds their wings around their body, wrapping themself in a feathered embrace.

Feoragan dives dramatically towards the ground, flowing lithely into a graceful handstand at the last second.

With a twirl, Lief begins to beat steadily upon her flower-painted drumskin. Thump. Thump. Thump.

Daraius's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Tsakali puts their hands on their hips and goes "Hmmm!"

You have recognised Lief for: For a brilliantly orchestrated intro to Serenwilde's festival's grand finale. Well done.

Silvanos winces in pain.

As she beats, Lief lowers herself to the earth, planting her bare feet solidly against it on one 'thump.'

Silvanos pats Tsakali in a friendly manner.

Silvanos pats Xis in a friendly manner.

Silvanos inclines their head politely to the Liar.

Lief urges her companions onwards.

Tsakali claps in rhythm with Lief, urging everyone around them onwards.

The Liar sways softly in place, honey gleaming on their muzzle as they watch Lief's drumming.

Silvanos turns translucent and then vanishes, leaving behind a cloud of sparkling motes of light.

Skarde reaches a hand toward the shadows and they respond, delivering a small, furry creature of darkness into his outstretched grasp. With a gesture, he shreds the flesh from its bones, which he then drops to the ground.

Elexia raises her drummer in the air for a few moments, allowing Lief to take the lead. As she sees her sister descend, she begins to beat in time. As she lowers herself to the earth, she sways this and that to the rhythm, her violet eyes sparkling.

Humming vaguely to herself, Duethielle Ladrennbenn continues to dance about the bonfire, her arms wrapped around one another as she sways back and forth slowly.

The bonfire flares suddenly, the flames burning into your sight. In the aftervision, you see the shape of a bright hart, antlers flickering.

Shango goes and stands off to the side, watching the festivities away from the group despite the sparkling tophat and bowtie collar standing out from his usual garb.

Feoragan pushes off from her handstand into a graceful twirl through the air, landing on her feet.
(The Crux): Snald (from the Aetherways) says, "Skarde is at 49399."

Lief stamps her feet and twirls as she begins to dance around the bonfire, her drum a steady thump, thump, thump.

You have emoted: Gurashi's eyes close as Lief finishes her statement, striking his drum suddenly, the noise deep and resonating. He waits, following the next drummer to play before taking up his own drummed harmony.

Esei turns their head away from the drums for a moment, staring intently into the fire.

Feoragan gestures at Skarde, who blinks rapidly and shakes his head.

You think to yourself: Farewell...

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi whispers to the Liar, "I would have worn something more flashy if I thought we would have dancing."

Daraius surveys the scene with consummate calm and comfort from atop a tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings, his ears trained attentively on the drummers as some of the others begin to dance.

Elexia skips her bare feet upon the forest floor as she follows Lief. She ends up taking her own meandering pattern about the bonfire, sprinkling jumps and twirls in the air.

Tsakali steps to the side and draws their other leg towards the first, tapping the toe by that foot then repeats the movement in reverse, maintaining a steady rhythm.

Slightly muffled as they continue to eat the food offered to them, the Liar says to Tsakali, "Mmmm, you shoull daaahnss mmmmyyyywaaaay."

Shango lopes in a circle, sniffing the air and ground alertly.

Tsakali grins mischievously at the Liar.

As Lief drums a steady beat, her feet carry her into her own world, dancing, spinning around a fragrant, crackling bonfire with those who sway and stomp and dance.

Nao slowly blinks, their fingers folding together as they carefully step off to the side to watch the others.

You feel a slight tug within your chest and the air around you sparkles with motes of bright light.
Sauntering in languorously, a puffball enters from the ether, revealing itself to be a ragdoll kitten with bright cerulean eyes.
Rakkan, the Crowned Jackal growls menacingly, his hackles raising as he catches a distasteful scent.

Binky Tailsnap approaches the Liar, his whiskers twitching with curiously. "Excuse me, Liar." His ears perk up, "You look, you look nice!"

Llani joins Lief in the dance about the fire, her painted feet striking against the forest floor as she moves with slow, deliberate motions, slowly twirling as she makes her way around the crackling flames.

You have emoted: Gurashi shifts in his spot, not yet following the two dancing faeling as they circle by, seeming entirely focused on his own drum and the fire before him.

Feoragan romps playfully in circles around Binky Tailsnap.

Binky Tailsnap blinks at Feoragan with a thoughtful air.

Tridemon continues watching Duethielle- and only Duethielle- with a single-minded focus that only falters when he remembers that he's trying not to be too conspicuous about investigating her. And failing miserably.

Elexia's lips open to let loose a wild cry. Her wordless vocalization goes up and down in pitch as she stomps her feet to the music. Her wings flutter open and closed as she goes about.

Shango idly twitches his tail.

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

You see the following people here:
Uzriel, Xis, Llani, Daraius, Skarde, Tridemon, Lief, Nao, Kailanna, Elexia, Feoragan, Esei, Tsakali, Vatul, Xenthos, Shango, Gurashi.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist, "Came!"

Puffy white fur brushing the floor as she passes, a ragdoll kitten saunters out to the south. <-- lmao

Shango coughs softly. <-- removed 90 brooches lol

You peer at Shango unscrupulously.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Oh Gods, why."

Primarch Shango D'Cente, Dark Animus of the Machine says, "Sorry."

You shrug helplessly.

Esei raises an eyebrow at Shango.

As nightfall steals the last vestiges of daylight, a slender leothin's muted coat begins to shine with a violaceous radiance, and a double pair of wings materializes, grandly extended as if they've been there all along.

Lief laughs to herself, a loud and carefree noise that rises from her chest. As she passes by those still sitting or standing, she occasionally pauses, motioning invitingly between thumping beats.

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

Duethielle Ladrennbenn hums softly as she pauses beside you, tapping her feet to his beat, eyes half-closed against the bright fire.

The Liar looks down at Binky and smiles wide, honey and herbs hanging sticky around their mouth. They seem to realise this a moment to late and reach up to wipe it away, offering a light laugh before responding, "You look nice as well, small one! Did you get invited by missus Lief, too?"

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

Valonah curtseys gracefully.

Tsakali claps in time, watching Lief and Elexia dance. Their feet stamp to the same beat, sending small bits of dust poofing upwards with each step.

Umbra, the shadow fox props herself up on her hind legs hopping around in circles and wagging her tail.

Daem pats Umbra, the shadow fox in a friendly manner.

Smoke rises in waves from the bonfire, partially obscuring the flames. With a soft breeze, the sharp, woody fragrance of the smoke washes over the clearing.

Suddenly tongue-tied, Binky Tailsnap says to the Liar, "I um... I sell things! Things! Like um... cookies?"

Tsakali gives a trillingly melodic laugh.

Lief breathes in the scent of wood, then yells aloud in Binky Tailsnap's and the Liar's direction, "And wine!"

You have emoted: Gurashi becomes aware of the presence beside him after a few drawn-out moments, turning to look at Duethielle Ladrennbenn as he continues to play. He catches sight of her hands, the tattoos suddenly so familiar, and offers a polite smile.

Evette doffs an oddly cute toad hoodie hat cordially.

Daraius startles slightly, his composure ruffled for only the barest instant as a tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings begins to trot in place to the rhythm of the drumming. Steadying himself against the beast's movements with a paw on his shoulder, Daraius effortlessly maintains his balance.

Evette flashes you a joyous smile.

Esei sits away from the fire, closing their eyes and inhaling the scent washing over the clearing.

His voice just loud enough over the drumming, you say to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "Like your tattoos."

(Trasto): Snald (from the Aetherways) says, "Those are new rooms if you're an explorer." <-- why 80 people kept teleporting in and walking around lol

For her part, Elexia appears almost ignorant of the world about her. She dances with wild abandon even as she beats her drum, rapturously caught up in the melody. Lief's words bring clarity, however, and she flashes those who still stand on the sidelines a smile. "Aye, this wine will not drink itself!"

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi whispers to the Liar, "It's not firemead, but maybe enough of it will enflame the senses."

The Liar tilts their head to the side, frowning in confusion as their mismatched eyes flash towards Binky, and then Lief, "Cookies? Wine? I don't know what cookies are, and the last time I heard of wine, I wasn't allowed any..."

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

Tsakali gives an iridescent peacock cookie to the Liar.

Lord Daem Bel'Fiore of Relentless Darkness says to Valonah, "You going to give out your cookies?"

A rainbow-furred seal with slippery flippers trots in with head high, butting Tridemon gently with her head.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn says to you, "Thank you..." She smiles dreamily, "I like them too..."

Tridemon pats a rainbow-furred seal with slippery flippers in a friendly manner.
Looking endearingly at Tridemon, a rainbow-furred seal with slippery flippers bounces to his side and buries her head against his torso affectionately.

Esei ponders Tridemon thoughtfully, looking him up and down.

Lief twirls, then stomps her feet in time with one of her drum's rattling beats. She pauses, waiting for Elexia to catch up to her, then dances a smaller circle fleetingly with her sister before returning to her own steady rhythm.

Tsakali licks their lips.

Evette ruffles her own hair, attempting to make herself presentable.

You have emoted: Gurashi opens his mouth, then shuts it. Then looks at the fire, mandibles clicking noisily a few times. Then, back to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, still playing his drum. "W..." He clears his throat. "Would like to dance?"

Valonah tentatively sticks out her tongue and licks a sweet fondue platter.

A dark amethyst edged blue kirin with two spiralling silver horns trots in with head high, butting Skarde gently with her head.

Shango lifts his eyebrow slightly, curious.

Evette removes an oddly cute toad hoodie hat.

Evette nods her head sagely.

Shango utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

With a quick beat of her wings, Valonah cautiously circles the area and studies her surroundings.

Evette urges Shango onwards.

Shango shakes his head.

Evette says, "Pssshhhh..."

Examining you carefully, Duethielle Ladrennbenn murmurs, "Sure. I like your music..." She holds out a hand towards you, the tattoos upon her skin shifting with the motion.

Primarch Shango D'Cente, Dark Animus of the Machine says, "I'm good. Wouldn't wear my sister's squid hats either..."

Lief once more gestures with her drumming hand between beating thumps. "Please enjoy food! Join us dancing! Grab a drum!"

Primarch Shango D'Cente, Dark Animus of the Machine says, "And she was fond of those knitted things."

A tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings shakes his feathery mane and flicks his wings a little, carrying Daraius along with him as he approaches a fragrant, crackling bonfire. The beast lifts one taloned front leg and one leonine back leg, bounces a beat, and then repeats, alternating as he trots around the clearing.

Daraius looks up into the air for divine inspiration.

Tsakali grins mischievously at a tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings.

The Liar puts a slightly nibbled on cupcake by their feet, taking a tentative bite from an iridescent peacock cookie that causes their eyes to widen in delight.

Binky Tailsnap's ears perk up as his attention turns towards the Liar.

Evette, Herald of Strife sticks out her tongue and says to Shango, "Dont be a weenie, try it!"

With a wink and a nudge, Feoragan wraps her arm around Binky Tailsnap, announcing that they are best friends. <-- bruh lol
Binky Tailsnap blushes furiously and casually tries to move away from Feoragan.
He pauses briefly as though considering what Feoragan said.

Perhaps spurred by Lief's movements, Elexia suddenly darts forward in her dance, skipping a circle about her sister and ending up just in front of her. She then waits, gesturing with a nod of her head for Lief to do the same.

Valonah laughs melodically at Evette.

With a bob of his head, Binky Tailsnap departs to the north.

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

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "I'm so sorry."

Esei gives a pained sigh.

Nao looks curiously over at Evette and Shango, their head tilting curiously. "Squid.. hat? Firefly.. squid?" They quietly question.

Evette slumps down dejectedly.

Shango blinks.

Feoragan coughs softly.

Vatul slips over to walk beside Daraius, her figure trailing after him and the gryphon. "Ah, Minister, are you able to dismount?" She calls after the loboshigaru with sweet concern.

Evette slips into an oddly cute toad hoodie hat.

Evette starts dusting an oddly cute toad hoodie hat.

"IT'S SO GOOD!" Loudly, the Liar distracts from Feoragan's social faux pas, not even realising that they are doing so.

Tsakali flops to the ground almost clumsily, snatching up a drum. Sitting with it between their thighs, they begin to drum upon it with both hands, softly at first.

Evette gives a trillingly melodic laugh.

Evette nods her head affirmatively at Shango.

You have emoted: Gurashi perks up, antennae rising. He adjusts the hands holding the drum, taking Duethielle Ladrennbenn's hand in his own smaller right and playing a bit more enthusiastically, stepping away from the fire and into the line of other dancers.

Utterly entranced, Tsakali emits a long "Ooooh."

Looking entirely nonplussed atop the gryphon, Lord Daraius Shevat, Minister of Cultural Affairs says to Vatul, "I have the impression he wishes to embarrass me."

A tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings talons the ground with a fierce shriek, his wings spreading gloriously behind him.

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "That's what I'm talking about."

Tsakali tentatively sticks out their tongue and licks a stag weed cookie.

You think to yourself: Said yes ... wowee.

The Liar turns their head around, curiously looking for their new, small friend. "Oh...did they..."

Once, twice, three times Llani circles the bonfire, lost in the rythm and the beat of the drums, before her attention finally returns to those on the sidelines. "Too many just sitting!" She declares, and a few brief flaps of her wings carry her over to Esei. She wraps her small hand around Esei's wrist, giving it a gentle tug as she tries to pull them into the circle.

You think to yourself: Please Gurashi do not step on feets -please- do -not- step on feets.

Evette nods her head at Llani, showing her acceptance.

With a flourish of his arm, Errente bows deeply.

"Hey!" Evette greets Errente warmly.

Errente beams broadly at Evette.

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

Lady Nightingale Vatul Feyranti, of the Danse Macabre says to Daraius, "Well, he is not, yet. He is a rather capable dancer. I was hoping you were not swept away by it unawares."

Daem runs up to Errente and envelops him in a massive bearhug.

Evette sways back and forth.

Errente hugs Daem compassionately.

Errente hugs Valonah compassionately.

Tsakali drums on the percussive instrument at a faster pace, using both the tips of their fingers and the heels of their hands to strike the hide.

Skarde shuffles his feet uneasily.

Valonah pets Errente ingratiatingly.

Feoragan romps playfully in circles around Skarde.

Valonah raises her hand in greeting to Skarde and says "Hi!"

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "My intended mouse-target ran away."

Errente Bel'Fiore, Firebear of the Goons says, "So this is Serenwilde?"

Raising his hand in greeting, Skarde says "Hi!"
Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "I'll have to find someone else to swirl around with now."

Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Valonah Bel'Fiore, Soul of Darkness says to Errente, "I guess so."

Evette ponders the situation.

Errente ponders for a moment and says "Hrm..."

Tridemon blinks.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn sways with you, mostly following your lead. She fixes her eyes upon you, humming softly and leaning close.

"Hey!" Evette greets Tridemon warmly.

A homunculus resembling a deformed furrikin says to Feoragan, "How you doin'?"

Shango idly twitches his tail.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "ANYONE ELSE."

A homunculus resembling a deformed furrikin smiles at Feoragan and her eyes wander up and down her body.

Lief's wings hum suddenly to carry her closer to a tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings, who she pauses before, beating her steady drum for the feathered creature's dance.

Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to a rainbow-furred seal with slippery flippers, "No, you will NOT demonstrate the trick you've learned."

Lord Daem Bel'Fiore of Relentless Darkness says, "Been a long time since I've been here."

Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Valonah Bel'Fiore, Soul of Darkness says to Errente, "It has been a century or more since I've been here."

Feoragan suddenly puffs up her fur, glaring off at the open air.

Elexia pauses her skipping about the bonfire near Errente, still beating her drum and marching in place. "Aye, welcome to the Serenwilde," she chimes with a merry smile. "Please, come enjoy some food and dance! Oh, and wine," her violet eyes twinkle with amusement.

Errente beams broadly at Tridemon.

Esei stands with a soft sigh, allowing Llani to lead them into the dance. "Hello, Little Bee," they murmur to her, lifting a brow in curiosity.

Errente looks at Elexia and comprehension flashes across his face.

Primarch Shango D'Cente, Dark Animus of the Machine says, "My lil pengu is adorable at least."

"He can have his fun," Daraius replies to Vatul with an amused growl, scratching a tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings gently behind his ear pinons as the beast caws in delight and spreads his wings.

You have emoted: Gurashi chitters excitedly, careful not to bump into other dancers as he leads Duethielle Ladrennbenn about the fire. "What is name?" He asks, speaking loudly over the din of other drums and voices and the crackling embers.

Evette ponders a royal penguin with an elegant white bow tie thoughtfully, looking him up and down.

Errente rubs his tummy and goes 'mmmmmmmm.'

Daem holds his hand out to Valonah and makes a small motion to where others are dancing. "Should we show them how it's done?"

Smoke rises in waves from the bonfire, partially obscuring the flames. With a soft breeze, the sharp, woody fragrance of the smoke washes over the clearing.

With a little spin, Elexia returns to follow Lief about the fire, beating her drum with an effortlessly flick of her wrist.

(Trasto): You say, "*hands on face*."

(Trasto): Errente says, "Go Gurashi!"

Evette twiddles her thumbs.

Feoragan ponders for a moment and says "Hrm..."

With a wink and a nudge, Feoragan wraps her arm around the Liar, announcing that they are best friends. <-- FEO NOOOOOO
The Liar blushes furiously and casually tries to move away from Feoragan.
He pauses briefly as though considering what Feoragan said.

(Trasto): Esei says, "FEORAGAN."

Uzriel edges very carefully away from the crowd, watching the dancers as he otherwise tries to avoid drawing attention to himself.

Voice carried as a whisper from the shadows, Proselyte Skarde Ysav'rai, the Wyrdfell Claw says to you, "New Glomdoring is nice this time of year..."

Errente Bel'Fiore, Firebear of the Goons says to Skarde, "I need to ask a favor of you, later that is."

Valonah curtseys before Daem as she lifts her hand up to his and twirls about landing in his arms.

Skarde stares implacably about himself.

Daraius rumbles with a sound somewhere between a chuckle and a growl as a tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings picks up his feet a little higher with each step, his trot becoming a prancing canter.

Her voice melodic, Duethielle Ladrennbenn says to you, "Duethielle Ladrennbenn... And you?"

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "Feoragan, quit seducing the Liar before you get eaten."

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Oh my..."

Tsakali gives a pained sigh.

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi says to the Liar, "Sorry about that."

Voice carried as a whisper from the shadows, Proselyte Skarde Ysav'rai, the Wyrdfell Claw says to Feoragan, "You're being foolish."

The Liar blinks as though suddenly realising what just happened.

While twirling her, you say to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "Am Gurashi An'Ryshe! Is very nice to meet, Miss Duethielle."

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "I'm so, so sorry."

Daem takes Valonah's hand, and flutters his wings. Hovering as he pulls Valonah into the sky, and begins twirling about. The shadows hanging off their form as they circle the bonfire.

Lerulla looks about herself, rubbing her chin thoughtfully.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers to the Liar, "You just look very handsome. I couldn't contain myself."

To Tsakali's drumming, Lief beats her own drum louder, a slower heart's beat to the thundering rumble of Tsakali's instrument.

Sidling up closer, a homunculus resembling a deformed furrikin says to Feoragan, "Seduce me next, if you want."

Llani pulls Esei into the circle proper, before letting go of their hand and leading in a primal dance, her small feet stamping to the rythm of the drums as she twirls about the fire once again. "It's not a time to sit or watch, it's a time to celebrate, to dance!"

The Liar slowly rises from the ground, odd-coloured eyes narrowing in hurt and confusion as they loom upward to their full height. "I do not think I want you to talk to me any more." With that being said, they turn and walk across the clearing, moving closer towards Daraius as they awkwardly avoid crashing into anyone.

You have emoted: Gurashi chirps happily as the twirl comes to an end, beating the drum again, the sound heavy, but full of emotion.

Feoragan crosses her arms on her chest, sticks out her lower lip, and pouts.

Lady Nightingale Vatul Feyranti, of the Danse Macabre says to Daraius, "Most assuredly, as can you," she intones, her gaze now turned toward those dancing about the bonfire. She addresses the gryphon, "Remember, you have him on your back, no extreme turns."

Elexia casts a gaze about the fireside, her violet eyes eventually focusing on Uzriel at its very periphery. Her merriment is briefly interrupted as a thoughtful looks manifests upon her face. Then, after a moment, it disappears as she resumes her joyous drumming.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "Everyone I flirt with hates me."

Valonah flutters her wings quickly keeping up in perfect rhythm to the music playing, swaying softly next to Daem she smiles happily.

Tsakali glares at Feoragan before hopping to their feet, hurrying after the Liar to console them.

Shango idly twitches his tail.

Umbra, the shadow fox curiously circles the area, pondering to participants, jumping up on her hind legs and doing her impression of a dance in front of you before moving on.

Midnight shadows coalesce around a new day, and Mother Night embraces the land in utter darkness.
It is now the 4th of Vestian, 546 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 1 days until the New Moon

A pure white swan graced with gaudy wings adorned with multi-hued ribbons's stomach gives one last desperate growl before he keels over from starvation.
A pure white swan graced with gaudy wings adorned with multi-hued ribbons shimmers and fades away from sight.

Esei blinks.

Kailanna raises an eyebrow questioningly.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Oh."

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "My swan..."

"Uhh..." stalls Feoragan.

Errente blinks.

A homunculus resembling a deformed furrikin says, "Serves you right. Now, come over here and seduce me."

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

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi whispers to the Liar, "Are you ok?"

Evette urges her companions onwards.

Lief drifts back off into the circle properly, her feet once more upon the earth, steps as heavy as faeling steps can be. She dances, feet sliding her in whirls and hops underneath the waning crescent moon.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "His food bag was full..."

Her long braid swaying as she smiles vaguely, Duethielle Ladrennbenn murmurs, "Gurashi... such a nice name for a kephera... sometimes I can't say the names..." She sweeps around the fire with you, "But I guess everyone has strange names..." She hums to herself once more, tunefully.

Daraius gently grips a tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings's feathered mane as the beast suddenly rears up and shrieks merrily. Letting out an unexpected sound between a laugh and a bark, Daraius fails to notice the Liar's approach.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers to a homunculus resembling a deformed furrikin, "I don't think I can seduce you, you disgusting thing."

Daraius pats a tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings in a friendly manner.
A tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings inclines his head politely to Daraius.

A homunculus resembling a deformed furrikin says, "You can start by getting me a drink."

Skarde frowns at Feoragan.

Daraius chuckles long and heartily.

A homunculus resembling a deformed furrikin winks conspiratorially at Feoragan.

Feoragan gives a graceful, opalescent wine glass to a homunculus resembling a deformed furrikin.

Voice carried as a whisper from the shadows, Proselyte Skarde Ysav'rai, the Wyrdfell Claw says to a homunculus resembling a deformed furrikin, "Don't listen to him, you're a gem."

A homunculus resembling a deformed furrikin fans herself with her hand, trying to keep cool.

The Liar crosses their arms across their chest and shrugs noncommittally, pausing behind Daraius as they answer Tsakali, "Will be fine. Might eat some more of those very nice plants."

Daem hums in tune to the music, as he takes Valonah's hand and swirls her in circles in the air, before pulling her to the ground, and pulliner Valonah close and swaying happily back and forth as they continue to circle the bonfire in perfect step to the music.

Evette, Herald of Strife asks Daem, "Can I borrow Valonah for a moment?"

Evette hides a grin behind her hand.

Tsakali draws closer to Daraius, eyeing him speculatively before nodding, whispering to the Liar again. "Let me know if you want more cookies then!"

You have emoted: Gurashi lets out a chittering laugh, shaking his head. "Oh goodness, know what mean." He perks up, suddenly pulling Duethielle Ladrennbenn forward to keep the two of them from crashing into another set of dancers. "Oop - many apologies," He steps back again, resuming his drumming. "Where are from? Have not seen before."

Esei begins to dance, calling the shadows of Night to swirl and wreathe around them like a cloak. Their footsteps, instead of marching in time with the drums of the room, stamp to their own beat. Darkness clings to them, turning dark eyes to Lief, watching her closely.

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

With several beats of her wings, Allixea alights upon Skarde's shoulder.

Skarde gives Allixea a peck on the cheek.

Effusing a flurry of golden motes as he effortless maintains his perch on the prancing beast, Lord Daraius Shevat, Minister of Cultural Affairs says, "I may let him do his thing along, after all. I'd not expected my first formal dance would be with Shantu rather than Sylandra."

You think to yourself: How did ... get name, wonder?

Voice carried as a whisper from the shadows, Proselyte Skarde Ysav'rai, the Wyrdfell Claw says to Allixea, "Hello, mym."

Skarde clears his throat.

Voice carried as a whisper from the shadows, Proselyte Skarde Ysav'rai, the Wyrdfell Claw says, "Mum, rather."

Allixea gives a trillingly melodic laugh.

Daraius steps down off of a tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings.

Allixea Ysav'rai says, "So this is where the part is at eh?"

Tsakali gives their homunculus and Feoragan another scowl before taking a seat, picking up their drum and leaning against it this time.

You think to yourself: ...is a nice name - makes happy.

"Shoo! Shoo!" Daraius says to a tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings as he waves him away.
Folding his wings so he can reach them easily, a tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings preens his wings happily, straightening out the disheveled feathers.

Allixea sniffs the air while fluttering a cute little rabbit nose.

Daem looks up at Evette curiously. "Perhaps in a moment." He smiles politely and continues dancing with Valonah.

You see the following people here:
Xis, Lief, Tridemon, Uzriel, Nao, Shango, Llani, Skarde, Evette, Tsakali, Esei, Feoragan, Daraius, Allixea, Valonah, Daem, Vatul, Kailanna, Elexia, Lerulla, Gurashi.

Simply, Duethielle Ladrennbenn says to you, "I'm here."

Evette nods her head at Daem.

You blink.

Lief yells out a noise of affirmation to Allixea as she continues to dance around the bonfire, drumming out a steady beat for her bare feet to carry.

Daraius watches in amusement as a tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings carries on his way around a fragrant, crackling bonfire. He takes a moment to straighten out his garments and glances about curiously.

Voice carried as a whisper from the shadows, Proselyte Skarde Ysav'rai, the Wyrdfell Claw says to a dark amethyst edged blue kirin with two spiralling silver horns, "Touka, you sure you want to be here, mm?"

Nodding slowly while dancing by the fire, you say to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "...guess is true, Miss Duethielle."

The Liar thanks Tsakali and then turns to watch the swaying and moving heads of those gathered, smiling nervously.

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

Cheerfully, you say to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "Well, am glad are here!"

Elexia leaps into the midnight air with her drum, the argent light of the waning crescent dimly illuminating her wings as she does an aerial flip over the bonfire, coming to land on the other side. Seemingly not yet content, she does the same maneuver again, ending up roughly where she was before.

Lit by a fragrant, crackling bonfire, Lief's twirling white skirts are all but ghostlike, unusually bright beneath the blanket of midnight sky. "Dance," she encourages newcomers. "Dance and eat and play a drum! Enjoy yourselves and celebrate the spring!"

A homunculus resembling a deformed furrikin frowns at Feoragan.

Umbra, the shadow fox rubs up against the liar, and barks softly at him, wagging her tail.

Evette sways back and forth.

Feoragan turns translucent and then vanishes, leaving behind a cloud of sparkling motes of light.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn lets go of your hand for a moment to pat you on the shoulder. "You are tall..." her voice is just as vague as before.

A homunculus resembling a deformed furrikin shrugs helplessly.

You blink.

Allixea ponders the situation.

The Liar shrieks, "Death to the enemies of Feoragan!" and approaches Shango in a threatening manner.
The ruby mark upon the Liar's head glows, and Shango's eyes are swept away by a dark inky void as a pained cry is drawn from his lips.
As the Liar's eyes turn towards Shango, his face slackens briefly and his muscles relax visibly despite a vein throbbing on his forehead.

Tsakali gives a pained sigh.

Shango lifts his eyebrow slightly, curious.

The Liar gives a pained sigh.

Evette ponders the situation.

Daraius looks up into the air for divine inspiration.

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "To liar peace, peace."

Kailanna glances askance.

Llani tilts her head back, gazing up at the crescent moon hanging in the sky above as she continues to twirl and stamp her feet to the rythm of the drums, slowly circling a fragrant, crackling bonfire.

Shango holds the Awesome Mask of Divine Realities steady in both of his hands and squints his eyes slightly as he stares through its empty eye holes.

Allixea Ysav'rai says, "I do not know any of these serenwilders."

Wagging his finger in censure, Shango fixes Umbra, the shadow fox with a glance of disapproval. She nods meekly then settles down.

You have emoted: Gurashi ceases dancing for a moment, blinking at Duethielle Ladrennbenn in confusion. "Oh, er," He looks up, touching his hat. "Guess sort of am."

A dark storm of black sand and crimson lightning briefly whisks the Liar away from sight.

Valonah dances about happily with her partner. Her long hair twirls around as Daem dips her and brings her back up as her lips land softly along his cheek in a soft kiss. Soft whispers are exhanged as she blushes.

Esei gives a pained sigh.

Shango twiddles his thumbs.

Evette nods her head emphatically.

Tsakali watches the Liar depart the glade, shrugging softly. Turning to Shango, they dip their
head in apology. "Sorry about that."
Evette twiddles her thumbs.

Allixea Ysav'rai says, "Clearly I need to make more friends."

Without stopping her circle about the bonfire or her drumming, Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon says to Allixea, "Well met! I am a member of the Sowers of the Last Seed, welcome to the Serenwilde."

Primarch Shango D'Cente, Dark Animus of the Machine says, "It's fine. Was either he calmed down...or I'd make him."

Sticking out one leg and bending it at the knee, you say to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "Can bend leggies if is too hard to dance with!"

Allixea Ysav'rai says to Elexia, "Excellent name!"

Lerulla ponders Elexia thoughtfully, looking her up and down.

Lerulla ponders Allixea thoughtfully, looking her up and down.

Tsakali gives a trillingly melodic laugh.

Lerulla says, "Your names are very similar."

Lerulla glances askance.

Lerulla says, "To my ears at least."

Allixea Ysav'rai says to Lerulla, "Clearly they are destined to be my friend."

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "They walked off to try and contain their emotions. They are not used to so many people together at once."

Lerulla shuffles her feet uneasily.

Allixea nods her head emphatically.

Primarch Shango D'Cente, Dark Animus of the Machine says, "Mm."

Duethielle Ladrennbenn looks down at your bent legs, staring inappropriately long. After half a minutes, she says, "Oh! Thank you..." She takes your hand and continues to dance once more.

Daem winks at Valonah and gives a soft laugh, and pulls her back up into the sky, swirling and hovering over the large bonfire.

Elexia's lips turn up in a grin somewhat reminiscent of a mischievous pixie's. "Aye, your parents also had excellent taste," she jests with a nod to Allixea.

Esei drifts over to Lief over the course of their dance, though not drifting into her path. Instead, they turn their eyes to the bonfire, almost as if they can see something within.

You chitter at Duethielle Ladrennbenn with energetic clicks of your mandibles.
Distracted, Duethielle Ladrennbenn gazes away into the distance.

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi says, "They've sort of been off hiding for a long while. They were very scared of us when we ran into them."

The chirping of crickets surrounds you in a medley of night-time music.

Valonah suddenly grabs Daem and swoops with him across the room, tangoing with unearthly grace.
Lord Daraius Shevat, Minister of Cultural Affairs asks Tsakali, "Do you know if the name is eponymous?"

Daraius swivels his ears towards Tsakali, listening with rapt attention.

Valonah laughs melodically at Daem.

Daem utters a deep, rumbling laugh at Valonah.

Tsakali puts their hands on their hips and goes "Hmmm!"

Allixea ponders the situation.

"Be right back!" Evette cries.

Xis vacantly stares at Daraius, nodding and smiling.

As Evette gazes coldly into nothing at all, a chill mist begins to grow around her ankles.

You have emoted: Gurashi lets loose a chittering laugh, not seeming inconvenienced by the change in height, though becoming extra careful of his proximity to those dancing nearby. After a few minutes more of sweeping and swaying about the fire, he asks, "Better?"

Lief continues to rattle on her drum, her wrist agitating out a faster rhythm using both her drumming stick's bulbous ends. Swaying and twirling, she laughs and beams, apparently oblivious to troubles beyond the bonfire's roaring light.

Daraius regards Xis with a dispassionate glance, offering a nod in reply.

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi says to Daraius, "Yes and no. Lies are often simply paradigms of unknown truths, and I don't know that they have told me any lies lately. When we first met them, they were trapped, and controlled by something which often made them lie. They were given the name by a madman, and do not remember their former name."

"Yes," Duethielle Ladrennbenn sweeps about with you, oblivious to anyone nearby. Several times, her braid almost swings into someone else.

You think to yourself: Is fun.

You think to yourself: Am having so much fun...!

Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to a rainbow-furred seal with slippery flippers, "I said no, you're not allowed to show off your ability to spit lightning. I don't care how proud you are that you learned, it's not an appropriate setting for that."

You beam broadly.

Esei murmurs softly to themself.

Valonah's eyes twinkle enchantingly at Tridemon.

Nao's eyes sparkle with amusement at Tridemon.

Umbra, the shadow fox looks up at Shango and barks. She paws at him lightly, then rears up on her hind legs and dances in a circle in front of him.

Daraius peers at Tsakali over the rims of a pair of thin spectacles. "Curious choice to keep such a name," he notes.

Lief manages to *just* duck out of the way of Duethielle Ladrennbenn's swinging braid as she herself dances, laughing all the time.

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

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "That was a mistake."

Shango grunts noncommitally.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "I was adding everyone back to my uh... List."

Feoragan coughs softly.

Primarch Shango D'Cente, Dark Animus of the Machine says, "I believe it best I take my leave then."

Shango doffs an ancestral loboshigaru tribal crown to a sparkling black top hat.
Shuffling to the ether, a royal penguin leaves.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "I removed eve-."

You have emoted: Continues on, following the lead of others. Though a shiny sheen appears on his carapace, Gurashi hardly seems phased by the exhausting, enthusiastic movements. He sees Lief duck out of the way, bursting out laughing and turning passed to offer a quick, "Many apologies!" before dancing him and Duethielle Ladrennbenn away again.

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi says to Daraius, "Names can be used against you. By not letting anyone know their true name, perhaps the Liar is safer than most of us."

Birds fill your ears with serenades of happiness and love.

Her tiny ears perk up, Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Valonah Bel'Fiore, Soul of Darkness says, "What is this sound of birds that I hear?"

Evette sways back and forth.

Words carrying a heavy Zoaka influence, Marquis Xis says, "Probably, it's a forest."

Winding down from dancing, Lord Daem Bel'Fiore of Relentless Darkness says to Valonah, "Seems to be birds, beloved."

Daraius issues a noncommittal growl, looking up from Tsakali's diminutive height to see a tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings returning from the other side of a fragrant, crackling bonfire, still prancing to whatever rhythm remains.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn stops suddenly and leans forward to plant a kiss upon your cheek. "Mmm.." she breaks into a smile and says vaguely, "Thank you..." She lets go of your hands and drifts vaguely northwards.

You blink.

Evette snaps her fingers.

You blush furiously.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn says, "My friend needs me..."

Duethielle Ladrennbenn leaves to the north, long braid swaying.

Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Valonah Bel'Fiore, Soul of Darkness says to Daem, "They sing of strange songs."

Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "... Hmm."

Daem nods his head at Valonah, showing his acceptance.

Trailing after Duethielle as she leaves, completely bewildered, you say, "Uh..."

Curiously, Lord Daem Bel'Fiore of Relentless Darkness says to Valonah, "Very different from the sounds of the Glomdoring."

Lerulla ponders the situation.

Lerulla closes her eyes and inhales deeply, absorbing the scent of her surroundings.

Visionary Esei of the Ascending Dusk says, "To be fair..."

Esei ponders the situation.

A beam of moonlight comes down from the sky and bathes Elexia in light.

Dazed, you say, "Are very...welcome."

Vatul quietly remains before the bonfire, her eyes focused within its flames for a time. She listens in peace to the songs through the din of the others speaking and feasting.

Lerulla says, "Different smells here too."

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

Placing a paw gently to beast's beak, Lord Daraius Shevat, Minister of Cultural Affairs says to a tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings, "You look tired, my friend. Head home."

Elexia begins to change the tempo of her drum beat, making it slightly faster, more lively still. Sweat covers her brow as she dances with abandon and flair. She begins to sing a wordless song, her voice rising and falling melodically as ghostly shapes, almost imperceptible, haunt the edge of the clearing.

Daraius tosses a bleached white bone to a tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings, and he catches it nimbly.
A tawny gryphon with grey-feathered wings bobs his head several times just before trotting off.

Esei ponders the situation.

Feoragan romps playfully in circles around Esei.

Valonah nods in agreement with Daem as she spins slowly one last time as the dance with him closes. Smiling she whispers to Daem "Thank you for the lovely dance." and lands near to the others again.

Tridemon glances off to the north, still focused on the elfen lady as she takes her leave. After a moment, he appears to come to a decision.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "I think it's best if I don't touch anything or anyone."

Tridemon turns towards the north and steps forward, instantly collapsing into a torrent of water that rushes outwards with a thunderous crash of water.
Giving a loud bark, a rainbow-furred seal with slippery flippers flops gracefully out to the north, her tail slapping against the ground with every lunge.

Lerulla flaps her wings quickly and begins to hover in the air.

Daem taps his feet and sways to the new beat, giving Valonah a peck on the cheek and a wink.

Evette shrugs helplessly.

Lief wings up to you as though to take Duethielle's place, though a drum and her drum-playing stand readily between her and the kephera. Twirling, her eyes alight with mischief, she asks you, "Do you know our friend Duethielle?"

With a quick beat of her wings, Lerulla cautiously circles the area and studies her surroundings.
Whispers of warmth flush through your skin as a sleek snow phoenix with wings of sapphire ice departs in a swirl of glittering flecks of ice.

Smoke rises in waves from the bonfire, partially obscuring the flames. With a soft breeze, the sharp, woody fragrance of the smoke washes over the clearing.

You have emoted: Gurashi finally steps back after the initial shock has worn off, returning to the fire with stiff steps, continuing to wear a bewildered expression as he resumes playing with the rest.

Startled, you say to Lief, "Oh! N-no, actually..."

Lord Daraius Shevat, Minister of Cultural Affairs says to Lief, "I imagine he does now."

Faintly buzzing, you say to Lief, "Think... have seen before, though!"

Allixea Ysav'rai says, "So what is the party about?"

Lief's sparkling gray eyes peer carefully at you, her expression both mirthful and dubious.

You have emoted: Gurashi glances towards Daraius, his carapace turning red from head to shoulders.

You clear your throat.

Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi smiles and says to Lief, "I think I should depart, but thank you for the invitation and the food. It was fun."

Udilya twirls merrily in mid air, hands raised towards the heavens.

Tsakali picks up 3 stag weed cookies.
Tsakali shifts their eyes suspiciously from side to side.
Tsakali searches the air in front of them, then tugs upon an invisible strand of force.

Umbra, the shadow fox hops around the bonfire playfully, diving into the Lief's shadow, and reappearing from Tridemon's shadow. She bounces along to the rhythm of the drum beat.

Valonah's eyes twinkle enchantingly at Tsakali.

Still playing his drum, though softer, you say to Lief, "But... was masked - so could not be sure."

Lief flashes Tsakali a beaming smile and ceases her drumming briefly to wave.

You have emoted: Gurashi smiles weakly.

Xis leaves, following Tsakali, Pilgrim of Bodhi.

Daraius's eyes sparkle behind the lenses of a pair of thin spectacles.

Allixea ponders the situation.

Still lingering near the kephera, twirling and drumming, Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon says to Allixea, "We are celebrating spring!"

Comprehension flashes across Allixea's face.

Elexia breaks out of the line of drumming, her breath heavy as she uses her forearm to wipe away some of her sweat. She says to Allixea between breaths, "It's a celebration. For the Spring," she takes a moment to compose herself, straightening her posture. "First for its coming, and now, for its sweet departure. It is a celebration of the seasons that we ourselves go through, as well, of the cycles that turn endlessly in the Basin."

Allixea Ysav'rai says, "Easily one of my top four favourite seasons."

Allixea nods her head emphatically.

Esei stands smoothly and steps over to you, lips twisted into a thoughtful frown.

You think to yourself: Head feels funny.

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

Lord Daraius Shevat, Minister of Cultural Affairs says to you, "You change color as well as any lucidian."

Sneaking over to pilfer a cookie from the tables, Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon says, "It is also a fine excuse for a feast, of course."

Sheepishly, you ask Daraius, "Oh, er - many ..... thank yous?"

You boggle at Daraius.

Lief resumes her drum's steady pounding, her eyes lit with mirth. She drifts away a touch, making room for Esei here near you.

Daraius rumbles with a sound somewhere between a chuckle and a growl.

Elexia flashes Allixea a grin as she hungrily takes a bite out of one of her cookie.
Esei inclines their head politely to Lief.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon, "Who is she...?"

Allixea gives a trillingly melodic laugh.

Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon says to Udilya, "Udilya, my dear! I am so glad you made it!"

A plush doll of Rhianna Shee-Slaugh takes a sprig of a cloth-crafted nightshade bush from deep beneath the folds of her robe, balls of crimson thread forming the berries. She picks each berry off one at atime, while chanting under her breath:
A plush doll of Rhianna Shee-Slaugh says, "He loves me, he loves me not, he loves me, he loves..."

Tan'ah, the whimsical wombat sweeps Umbra, the shadow fox across the floor, dazzling Umbra, the shadow fox with her footwork.

Reaching the last berry, a plush doll of Rhianna Shee-Slaugh's lavender gem eyes narrow at the remaining wad of crimson thread with a frightening, angry shine. Her stitched mouth parts slightly, and she pops the berry into her mouth with a crunch of mangled cloth. "He loves me," She finishes.

You feel a slight tug within your chest and the air around you sparkles with motes of bright light.
Sauntering in languorously, a puffball enters from the ether, revealing itself to be a ragdoll kitten with bright cerulean eyes. <--yay Xenthos came back

Rakkan, the Crowned Jackal growls menacingly, his hackles raising as he catches a distasteful scent.

Xenthos rolls his eyes.

Udilya flashes Elexia a joyous smile.

Xenthos rolls a pair of dice with flair. As they tumble to a stop, you see that one shows a 6 and the other a 4.

Lief tells you, "I've only met her recently myself, in truth! I sadly know very little, though I hope to learn more of her."

Elexia flashes Udilya a warm smile as she scoops up another cookie. Taking careful aim, she tosses it through the air to her friend.

You have emoted: Gurashi stares back towards the bonfire, still seeming dazed as he plays the drums. Finally, he notices Esei, turning his head to look. "Are having good time...?"

Puffy white fur brushing the floor as she passes, a ragdoll kitten saunters out to the ether.

Elexia tosses a stag weed cookie to Udilya, and she catches it nimbly.

Allixea picks up a stag weed cookie.

Udilya beams broadly.

Lief tells you, "She is very close friends with Binky, who was here speaking with the Liar, and also with Miaei, who I think is tending her shop."

Showing that you understand, you nod your head slowly towards Lief.

Esei nods subtly to your question, though their eyes never quite leave Lief.

You see the following people here:
Uzriel, Skarde, Daraius, Nao, Llani, Udilya, Lief, Daem, Kailanna, Lerulla, Elexia, Allixea, Feoragan, Esei, Valonah, Vatul, Gurashi.

Lord Daraius Shevat, Minister of Cultural Affairs says to Lief, "Minister, I confess I'm quite impressed you've drawn such a diverse crowd."

Udilya smiles and says to Elexia, "Thank you, it's great to be here! I'm glad I didn't mis this dance."

Faintly buzzing, you say to Daraius, "Miss Lief is very nice persons. Was easy."

Umbra, the shadow fox's eyes alight with delight as she paws at Tan'ah circling her on her hind legs.

Primarch Shango D'Cente, Dark Animus of the Machine shouts, "I don't wear fedoras."

Feoragan waves good-bye and disappears from sight.

Lerulla ponders Umbra, the shadow fox thoughtfully, looking her up and down.

Elexia waves about two cookies in her hands as if she were wielding weapons ready to throw. "Has anyone else an appetite? There is far too much food here to waste!" she calls out.

You have emoted: Gurashi offers another weak, chittering laugh, looking down at his drum again while playing.

Esei pats you in a friendly manner.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon, "Is from Serenwilde??"

Lief brightens with Daraius's compliment, and she beams. "Thank you so very much!" she says effusively. "As Elexia says, we are all touched by the cycles of the seasons. Spring has come for all of us, not just the Serenwilde!"

Umbra, the shadow fox tilts her head curiously at Lerulla.

Lerulla says to Umbra, the shadow fox, "Sorry, I was just noticing how lovely you were."
Feoragan eats a wafer of purity dust.

Lief tells you, "She is! She's lived here her entire life, I gather."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon, "Ah ..."

Daraius concedes your point with an upturned paw, silver script visible briefly upon his padded palm. "I quite believe it, but kindness alone does not an effective event planner make."

Lerulla looks about herself, rubbing her chin thoughtfully.

Elexia gives a chipper nod of agreement in Lief's direction, her weariness quickly fading after eating but a single sweet. "Aye, we all must share the seasons together, and it is for this reason that all are welcome," she chimes.

With an enthusiastic shrug, you say to Daraius, "Don't know that!"

Esei raises an eyebrow at you.

At the notion of 'planning,' Lief laughs aloud. "Goodness," she says, "to plan for this, I buried my head in scripts and books and letters for months on end."

Umbra, the shadow fox nods her head, and bares her thorn-like teeth in what could be considered a smile, before rubbing herself up against Lerulla slowly. She nuzzles her head into Lerulla's hand.

Allixea climbs onto Mishibi, the panther.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon, "Would be weird if said goodbye to, before ... left? Is probably weird. Bet is weird."

Lerulla smiles softly at Umbra, the shadow fox.

Indicating Lief's response with a tile of his muzzle, Lord Daraius Shevat, Minister of Cultural Affairs says to you, "You see?"

You cough softly.

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

Lief tells you, "Oh, no. I think she would appreciate it! She's worked so very hard during these festivities, too, and I think she'd be very happy knowing she has a friend wishing her well."

Llani twirls back towards the drum line, this time reaching down to grab you by one of his forearms, some of her black and yellow body paint sticking to your carapace. "The dance is not nearly done! The day is young, and the bees still fly!" She exclaims, trying to draw you back into the circle.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Did not mean to disregard all of hard work!"

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon, "Hmm... O-K."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon, "Many thank yous for inviting."

Esei raises an eyebrow at Llani.

Lief tells you, "Yes, of course! Now - I believe Llani wants to dance with you."

You blink.

Lord Daraius Shevat, Minister of Cultural Affairs says, "I have decades of Ministerial experience, myself, but I imagine I will take some advice from my comrade for the Beacon's next refounding festival."

Faintly buzzing, you exclaim to Llani, "O-oh!"

LOOK LLANI
She is a nimble faeling with antlers. Her curly, raven-black hair is swept back past pointed ears and falls to the small of her back, all manner of colorful beads and other small trinkets woven into it. Curious green eyes peer past the tip of her rounded and slightly upturned nose as she watches the world go by. Her form is lithe and slender, though the gentle swell of her chest and hips adds a touch of femininity to her figure. At two feet in height, she's large for a faeling but still dwarfed by her rounded bee wings, each marked with a black hexagonal pattern that stretches across the translucent membrane. Swirling, hypnotic patterns of black and yellow cover every inch of her body. Still wet in places, the fresh paint hasn't had a chance to fully dry yet. A lush fragrance dances about her as she stands awash in the wild, prismatic colours of a truefavour from Maylea, Bloom of Serenity. An ethereal bracelet of azure flame rests upon her wrist, marking the truefavour of Raezon, the Forbidden upon her.
She is wearing:
a bumblebee and daisy anklet
a vine-woven bone necklace
the Flame of dae'Seren hanging from her wrist by a silver chain.

Quickly averting his gaze towards the sky, you say to Llani, "S-sure, will dance."

Lief flashes you a mischievous grin as she watches Llani pull at you, then returns her attention to Daraius with a bow of her antlered head. "My best piece of advice is to plan long, long, long before you think you need to. Spend days at a time buried in work, not months."

Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon laughingly says, "That's what I've learned."

Daraius nods his head at Lief.

You have emoted: Gurashi quickly readjusts his drum between his four arms again, his dance returning to its earlier enthusiastic tempo. "Uhm, what is name!" He asks awkwardly over the din.
You have recovered balance on all limbs.

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.

Lief drifts a circle about Esei, her wrist resuming the beat of her drum. Curiously, she asks Esei, "Are you enjoying yourself?"

Feoragan ponders a plush doll of Weeky Peedia, the Furrikin Savant thoughtfully, looking it up and down.
A plush doll of Weeky Peedia, the Furrikin Savant turns to Feoragan, a big smile on his face. "Oho! Hello there!" he exclaims.
A plush doll of Weeky Peedia, the Furrikin Savant says, "A classic is something that everybody wants to have read and nobody wants to read."
A plush doll of Weeky Peedia, the Furrikin Savant nods its head sagely.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "Very true, Weeky."

Esei nods to Lief. "Indeed. Observing, at the moment. I do not think I have found a dancing partner," they say, glancing around the room.

Daem flashes Lerulla a joyous smile.

Lerulla flashes Daem a joyous smile.

"Llani!" Llani Exclaims with a smile, doing her best to be heard of the steady beat of the drums. She reaches up to lightly grasp your other forearm, leading him in a twirling, rythmic dance about the fire.

Lord Daraius Shevat, Minister of Cultural Affairs says to Esei, "It appears most simply grab the kephera drummer and use him."

Udilya smiles and says, "You do not need a dancing partner to enjoy yourself."

Esei rolls their eyes at Daraius.

With something of a chuckling growl, Lord Daraius Shevat, Minister of Cultural Affairs says, "Or perhaps you have a gryphon of your own you could call?"

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "I have a swan."

Esei flashes Daraius a sharp, knife-like smile. "No," they say. "I do, however, have a wyvern."

Elexia blithely flits to and fro, her drum now resting alongside the other unusued instruments as she circles the bonfire area. Her eyes scan the remaining crowd curiously, and she pauses in the air after a moment. She lowers herself down near Skarde, tilting her head curiously. "Are you enjoying yourself?" she asks him.

You have emoted: Gurashi chitters, pulled forward by the faeling's surprising strength. "Oh," He sweeps a little too near to the fire, intent on focusing on his drum as he dances. "Am Gurashi An'Ryshe. Think have seen before, in timequakes, and such."

You chitter at Llani with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

Daraius dips his bewhiskered canid muzzle to Esei in acknowledgement.

Lief laughs, continuing to twirl and drum around Esei, her bare feet tapping the air absent solid earth to stamp against before drifting off. Her eyes scan those gathered here, flashing Kailanna a grin, and then Uzriel, gaze lingering briefly upon those others she recognizes.

The ghost of a smile passes fleetingly across Kailanna's lips as she glances at Lief.

Feoragan romps playfully in circles around Esei.

Esei tilts their head curiously at Feoragan.

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

Esei strokes a graceful wyvern with feathered wings tenderly.

"For my part, I'm afraid I must head home." Daraius says. Turning to Lief, he adds sincerely, "Thank you for sharing this bit Seren culture with the Basin."

Daem flashes Esri a joyous smile.

Esri hugs you compassionately.

You chitter at Xenthos with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

Crackles and snaps issue from the bonfire here as swirls of glowing motes rise into the air.
A light smattering of clouds now covers the sky.

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

"Hey!" Esri greets warmly.

Lerulla inclines her head politely to Esri.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers to Lief, "Thank you for your courteous invite. I loved the party, though I fear I made a bit of a fool of myself. It's the drink..."

Feoragan coughs softly.

With a flourish of his arm, Esri bows deeply.

Feoragan doffs a gold trimmed pirate captain's hat cordially.

Smoke rises in waves from the bonfire, partially obscuring the flames. With a soft breeze, the sharp, woody fragrance of the smoke washes over the clearing.

His eyes sparkling subtly, Lord Daraius Shevat, Minister of Cultural Affairs says, "I'm truly impressed at how little blood was shed, but I suppose the celebration is young yet."

Udilya quietly slips away from the party, her feet keeping time to the music as she zips away.

Elexia looks up curiously at the new arrivals. "Ah, Spirit Warden, welcome to the Serenwilde," she says with a respectful dip of her head. "I am glad you made it for the festivities."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to Feoragan, "You should keep an eye out on that, in the future, then."

Lief pauses, flitting nearer to Daraius. Likewise sincere, she bows her antlered head deeply, pausing in her drumwork long enough to say, "Thank you so much for joining us, Minister. I'm so glad we had Hallifax's company here with us!"

Udilya begins to flap her wings powerfully, and rises quickly up into the firmament.

Xenthos ponders Daraius thoughtfully, looking him up and down.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd says, "Yes.."

Feoragan coughs softly.

Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon smiles impishly and says to Daraius, "Leaving before the party will get truly fun, I see."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to Daraius, "There. Have some blood."

Allixea ponders the situation.

In a hushed yet warm voice, Disciple of the Thorned Willow Esri, Proselyte of the Awakening says, "Greetings everyone!"

Allixea ponders Lief thoughtfully, looking her up and down.

Daraius stares blankly at Xenthos.

You think to yourself: So ... is from Serenwilde...

Xenthos tilts his head and listens intently to Daraius.

Lief raises her drumming hand in greetings to Esri. "Hello, hello!" she calls out, then picks up the beating pace upon her drum again.

With a hand raised in greeting, Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon says to Esri, "Well met, a merry Vestian to you."

Esri ponders the situation.

"Lots of killing on both sides.." Llani Says with a quick laugh as she continues to twirl and dance. "But now's not the time to think of that, or the place." She adds, her wings buzzing to life as they lift her up to eye level.

You think to yourself: ...wonder if knows am from Glomdoring?

Valonah slips over quietly to look at the wildflowers growing and stops to try to pick one.

Esri hugs Valonah compassionately.

In a hushed yet warm voice, Disciple of the Thorned Willow Esri, Proselyte of the Awakening says to Valonah, "I have missed you."

Valonah flashes Esri a joyous smile.

Clasping his paws and offering a polite bow, Lord Daraius Shevat, Minister of Cultural Affairs says, "May you each be well, and your efforts fruitful, insofar as they don't counter the aims of the Collective."

Daraius takes the Quintessential Mandala of Resplendent Harmony in both hands and bows his head. Swirling ribbons of colour race outwards from the mandala, wrapping about Daraius as he begins to break down into an infinite number of small, fractal shapes before flaring outwards in a fractal swirl, dissipating into the air.

Lord Daem Bel'Fiore of Relentless Darkness says to Esri, "Oh, I hope everything went well after your rite. Very sorry I had to leave so soon after."

Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Valonah Bel'Fiore, Soul of Darkness says to Esri, "Hello! I had a charming dance with my husband, I tried something called fondue and now I'm looking at their flowers."

You have emoted: "Oh, didn't mean--" Gurashi suddenly cuts himself off as Llani flutters up to meet his eyes, letting loose a loud, whistling sound of defeat.

In a hushed yet warm voice, Disciple of the Thorned Willow Esri, Proselyte of the Awakening says to Valonah, "Sounds very nice!"

Suddenly reaching for his bag as he dances, you say to Llani, "Oh."

Valonah flutters her wings and takes flight after a squirrel, chasing after it.

You take a plump bumblebee cookie from a fesix backpack.

You give a plump bumblebee cookie to Busy Bee Llani Myeras, Springtime Portent.

Vatul rises from her reverie in the flames of the bonfire, and strides over to Lief, her serene gate drawing the train of her gown across the grass. She remains rather out of the way, keeping a point of observation to all as she sups on a few confections and feast things.

You think to yourself: Duethielle... wonder if parents were from Delport?

In a hushed yet warm voice, Disciple of the Thorned Willow Esri, Proselyte of the Awakening says, "I hope everyone is well?"

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to Valonah, "It was not the kepheran one, I imagine?"

Elexia clasps her hands in front of her and nods to Esri. "Aye, it has been a splendid affair, I am so glad to see so many peoples from all walks of life here," she replies warmly.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to Valonah, "Might be worth asking Gurashi to whip one of those together for you some day."

Esri flashes Elexia a joyous smile.

Perking up upon hearing his name, though still many feet away dancing, you ask, "Eh? What??"

A broad smile spreads across Llani's face as she reaches out to take the cookie from you, promptly poping it into her mouth. "Hese are mah favorite." She says gratefully with a mouthful of food.

Llani quickly devours a plump bumblebee cookie.

Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Valonah Bel'Fiore, Soul of Darkness says, "Kepheran fondue? Very interesting!"

You chitter at Llani with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

Esei carefully starts unbuckling their plate armor, though they aren't entirely naked underneath. Shadows writhe across their skin, covering most of their body from any indecency, and truly joins in the dancing.

Still careful about where his gaze sits, you say to Llani, "Should go see the bumblebee platters that brought. Think would definitely like."

Sighting Vatul, Lief closes the distance and wings nearer to her. She maintains her steady drumming, loud and forceful for the sake of those who dance, but she directs her attention otherwise to Vatul. "How are you enjoying the festivities, Lady Nightingale?" she asks.

Lord Daem Bel'Fiore of Relentless Darkness whispers to Valonah, "Are the drums a Serenwilde thing?"

Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Valonah Bel'Fiore, Soul of Darkness whispers to Daem, "I don't know."

Bizirik, the leothin sits, awkward and forgotten on the edge of the party. Slowly it rises, wandering over towards where the food is kept and grasping a shiny peacock cooking between its uneven jaws. It turns, then trots over to where Xenthos stands, sitting opposite of Ilistala beside him.

Lerulla looks about herself, rubbing her chin thoughtfully.

Bizirik, the leothin thrums happily, licking cookie crumbs off its face with a long, forked tongue.

"I had some!" Llani says with a smile as she finishes the last of the cookie and returns to dance, still grasping one of your forearms. "Were they your own design?" She asks, with the slightest tilt of her head.

Lord Daem Bel'Fiore of Relentless Darkness whispers to Valonah, "Very different from the drums of the dead."

Her voice intertwining in the rhythm, Lady Nightingale Vatul Feyranti, of the Danse Macabre says to Lief, "Quite well, it is enjoyable to see all so joyous in worship of the rites of spring."

You shake your head.

Laughing and shaking his head, you say to Llani, "Wish could say was, but."

Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Valonah Bel'Fiore, Soul of Darkness says to Daem, "Indeed, odd beat these drums sound."

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly points across the clearing to Xenthos. "Was his design! Are the best, aren't they?"

Xenthos uses his fingertips to drum out slow, even beats upon the Drums of Kiakoda.

A soft beating rises up from the ground, carrying with it the chirping of birds and chittering of small animals.

Valonah nudges Daem suggestively.

Elexia casts her eyes about the gathering with a satisfied nod. She flies over to where she sat down her drum earlier and scoops it up in her hands. She takes up her beat once more as she alights down near the bonfire, beginning to dance about it in a circle.

Skarde wrinkles his nose and sniffs.

Valonah thrusts an athame dagger into the ground near Daem, then as she withdraws her weapon from the ground, Daem's shadow comes with it.

Valonah curtseys gracefully before the shadow of Daem.

Lief continues her own drumming rhythm from where she hovers near Vatul, her eyes bright with approval. "I'm so glad you think so!" she beams, bobbing in the air. "I heard from your Warlady that Magnagora might well be considering festivities of your own?"

The smell of wildflowers wafts past your nose.

Llani glances over to Xenthos with a smile. "Thank you for the bees!" She yells out, doing her best to be heard over the din of the drums and the stamping of feet.

You chitter at Xenthos with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

Umbra, the shadow fox tilts her head curiously at Bizirik then wanders over to the plate of cookies, and takes a peacock cookie in her mouth, devouring it quickly.

Esri hugs Valonah compassionately.

Bizirik, the leothin chirps happily at Umbra, the shadow fox.

Valonah gives Esri a friendly squeeze.

You see the following people here:
Nao, Uzriel, Skarde, Llani, Allixea, Vatul, Valonah, Lief, Esri, Daem, Xenthos, Kailanna, Elexia, Esei, Gurashi.

Birds fill your ears with serenades of happiness and love.

Lady Nightingale Vatul Feyranti, of the Danse Macabre says to Lief, "Certainly, we are deciding on a variety of aspects of it." At the dusk, her face flushes with a gentle, starlit glow. "But I hope it shall be something worth attending."

You have emoted: Gurashi also waves over at Xenthos, chittering before resuming his own drum playing. With a great sigh, he glances north, then resumes dancing and playing on.

Skarde sucks thoughtfully on his teeth.

Skarde approaches Xenthos, extending one claw out to him, "A dance?" the aslaran offers with the faintest shine of a grin.

Umbra, the shadow fox props herself up on her hind legs hopping around in circles and wagging her tail.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to Skarde, "No, but thank you."

Llani finally lets go of your wrist as she returns to the circle on her own, landing on the ground and twirling and stamping to the beat of the drums.

Kailanna pets Rakkan, the Crowned Jackal ingratiatingly.
Rakkan, the Crowned Jackal leans into Kailanna's hand, letting out a low, satisfied rumble.

Valonah flutters her wings softly as she joins others around the bonefire in dance. Humming along to the music she twirls happily with the shadows.

Valonah hums a happy tune and smiles at the shadow of Daem.

A white skull bounds in, bones rattling.
A white skull cackles hellishly at Esei.
A white skull says to Esei, "Rewards were not as great as expected."
A white skull bounds out of the room, cackling.

Uzriel fluidly waves his arms about his body and you notice that with each pass pieces of misty-purple phantom armour are revealed.

Daem thrusts an athame dagger into the ground near Valonah, then as he withdraws his weapon from the ground, Valonah's shadow comes with it.

Esei furrows their brow in thought.

Puffy white fur brushing the floor as she passes, a ragdoll kitten saunters out to the north.

Daem hums a happy tune and smiles at the shadow of Valonah.

Valonah winks conspiratorially at the shadow of Daem.

Daem happliy falls in line behind Valonah dancing along with her shadow.

Errente blinks.

The gale surges and howls to a crescendo, consuming Skarde in a fierce whirlwind.
A dark amethyst edged blue kirin with two spiralling silver horns strides away to the ether.

Esei steps over to Lief again, shadows swirling around their ankles. "Care for a dance?" They murmur, eyes flitting over her face. "Or are you a bit busy with the drums?"

Primarch Shango D'Cente, Dark Animus of the Machine shouts, "Mind the puddles on the roads. Still out and about it seems...liberal use of the Archway before the Portal will help."

(Trasto): You say, "Damn xenthos left again."
(Trasto): Xenthos says, "I'm north."
(Trasto): Xenthos says, "Tridemon is talking to elf and mouse."
(Trasto): Xenthos says, "I'm spying."

You have emoted: Gurashi stumbles a bit, finally beginning to show the first signs of fatigue. He continues to play regardless, starting to wander towards the north.

Hidden glade market.
There is a moderate breeze here. A number of briar rose bushes grow at the edges of the glade, enclosing it in a thick, thorny ring that is difficult to traverse without injury. Rising from the leaves is a subtle fragrance, sweet as apples, which permeates the meadow with its rustic stalls and shelves that house various items for sale. Tall birch trees rise from among the briars, their whorled eyes overlooking the area like silent guardians. An oak sapling clings tenaciously to the ground here. Hackles risen, a fierce timberwolf prowls about here. Reaching up as high as the eye can see looms the awesome presence of a living totem. Binky Tailsnap stands here, his soft nose and whiskers lifted thoughtfully. Her olive skin glowing with beauty, Duethielle Landrennbenn sings to herself. Lazing about on her rainbow-furred belly, a seal with slippery flippers gazes about with a contented smile on her face. Rife with sweet-scented, clustered flowers, an elderberry shrub blooms in an untended snare. Nothing more than a puffball with cerulean eyes, a seal lynx point ragdoll kitten lies here lounging languidly. Trailing fluttering motes of dreams, the evanescent form of a blithe dream phoenix lingers here, gossamer wings of ethereal light cascading behind him. Tridemon is here, pondering thoughtfully. He wields a coral staff in his left hand. Clad in matte black leather, a golden-eyed savage lingers here like a living shadow.
You see exits leading east, south, and west.
Lifting her head, Ilistala looks at you hopefully.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn returns to humming softly to herself, swaying back and forth.

You blink a few times and stare at Xenthos in confusion.

Whispering loudly as he wanders over, you ask Xenthos, "What's going on?"

You chitter at Xenthos with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to Binky Tailsnap, "Still... consider the rapier. It might dissuade attempts so that Duethielle does not have quite so much work to do. Entirely your decision, though."

You have emoted: Gurashi glances towards Duethielle Ladrennbenn before turning his attention to Tridemon, tilting his head.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Are you trying to talk Binky into bearing a sword?"

Xenthos tilts his head curiously.

(Trasto): Xenthos says, "Oh I see. Tridemon is trying to Redwall this mouse."

Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "A suggestion only. There's a reason he is here and not at the party, which is not mine to share."

Binky Tailsnap blushes furiously.

You blink.

Faintly buzzing, you ask Tridemon, "...did something happened?"

You cough softly.

Withdrawing a lovely embossed dagger of moonhart patterns, Binky Tailsnap says, "I have a dagger."

Correcting himself, you say, "Happen..."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Ah. I believe I know what happened. Somewhat. Skarde mentioned something about someone trying to be charming."

A wry smile spreads across Xenthos's face.

You blink.

Standing on tip toes to look passed Xenthos's shoulder, you ask Binky Tailsnap, "Was someone mean to?"

Duethielle Ladrennbenn turns at your voice and smiles at you. "Hi..." her voice is soft.

You chitter at Duethielle Ladrennbenn with energetic clicks of your mandibles.
Distracted, Duethielle Ladrennbenn gazes away into the distance.

You have emoted: Gurashi falls back to regular height, moving to stand beside Xenthos, head still tilted in concern and confusion. He waves his smaller left hand towards the elfen, holding the drum tightly to his chest with the rest.

Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says to Binky Tailsnap, "You are well-equipped to take care of yourself, I see. ... My questions have more or less been answered at this point..."

Covering his face with his hands once more, Binky Tailsnap exclaims, "There is nothing to talk about! I sell things!"

You blink.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn pats Binky Tailsnap in a friendly manner.

You look about in confusion.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Would you like to buy things?"

You have emoted: Gurashi chitters softly, then goes rummaging through his bag. After a moment, he pulls out a plump, bumblebee-decorated cookie, then wanders over, extending his hand and offering it to Binky Tailsnap.

Binky Tailsnap peeks out from between his fingers at you. He reaches forward to take the cookie.

Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "I will take my leave. ... would you like a small blessing before I go?"

You give a plump bumblebee cookie to Binky Tailsnap.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn smiles vaguely at you. "That is very nice of you..."

You have emoted: Gurashi turns, a second cookie held between his hands. "Would like one? Is very last," He offers to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, mandibles clicking.

You chirp happily.

Midnight shadows coalesce around a new day, and Mother Night embraces the land in utter darkness.
It is now the 5th of Vestian, 546 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 32 days until the New Moon

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Is it the very last?"

Xenthos gives a plump bumblebee cookie to you.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "You might have one more hiding somewhere."

Stammering, you say to Xenthos, "Mean, last one that have on ..."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "Have you checked your packs?"

Her tattoos moving across her face as she smiles again, Duethielle Ladrennbenn says to you, "Oh...! Thank you..."

You have emoted: Gurashi looks at both cookies, then up at Xenthos, squinting. "Did not eat this."

You give a plump bumblebee cookie to Duethielle Ladrennbenn.

You chirp happily at Duethielle Ladrennbenn.
Duethielle Ladrennbenn flashes her clear blue eyes upon you.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "I have been eating the platters instead."

You nod your head at Xenthos.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn says, "I like bumblebees..."

Xenthos brandishes a kabob of centaur jerky menacingly.

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "This is the last thing I have left."

Holding the cookie with both hands, Binky Tailsnap exclaims to Tridemon, "Thank you? But no thank you? I thank you for coming!"

Holding the last cookie gently, you say to Xenthos, "Will make more foods when get home, promise..."

Tridemon nods his head emphatically.

Tridemon turns towards the south and steps forward, instantly collapsing into a torrent of water that rushes outwards with a thunderous crash of water.
Giving a loud bark, a rainbow-furred seal with slippery flippers flops gracefully out to the south, her tail slapping against the ground with every lunge.

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

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly squints, turning his attention to the last cookie and splitting it with near perfect symmetry, offering both hands to either merchant. "Can have this one too."

You give a short gasp of elation.

Preceded by a loud barking and the slapping of her tail, a rainbow-furred seal with slippery flippers flops in gracefully from the south.

Jolanthe curtseys gracefully.

Cheerily, you say to Jolanthe, "Many greetings!"

Jolanthe Myeras says, "I seem to be rather late, so I'll be rushing along. Enjoy yourself, though!"

Jolanthe waves goodbye.

Jolanthe leaves to the south, emanating an aura of immense power.

You blink.

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

Raising the cookie halves and chattering matter-of-factly, you say, "She was one who designed cookies... er."

Binky Tailsnap says to you, "Um, I think I will take it. Duet sometimes gets... she's goes off for a while."

You blink.

You give a plump bumblebee cookie to Binky Tailsnap.

Looking to Duethielle, you say, "But is right here."

You blink a few times and stare at Binky Tailsnap in confusion.
Binky Tailsnap clasps his tiny hands together.

Binky Tailsnap smiles and holds both cookies in a stack in both of his hands. "Thank you!" he squeaks.

You nod your head at Binky Tailsnap.
Binky Tailsnap clasps his tiny hands together.

Binky Tailsnap says to you, "I mean... she likes to think and things."

Duethielle Ladrennbenn hums a happy tune.

Llani tells you, "Oh, I'm not sure if you knew, but my mom made those bee cookies for me originally!"

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to you, "Wandering minds."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says to you, "You've seen that a time or two."

Spirit Warden Xenthos An'Ryshe, the Ebon Strategist says, "When the brains go dashing about the woods."

You have emoted: Gurashi tilts his head curiously at Binky Tailsnap, then over towards Duethielle Ladrennbenn, nodding a few times. "...yeah, know what is like."

You beam broadly.

You beam broadly at Xenthos.

Llani tells you, "And it's really wonderful to see that someone else appreciates them like I do."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Busy Bee Llani Myeras, Springtime Portent, "Ahh. Foods are good way to link peoples together. Everyone should like bumblebees."

You click your mandibles together energetically, chittering to yourself.

Looking between either merchant curiously, you ask, "Miss Lief mentioned are... selling stuffs...?"

Binky Tailsnap nods his head enthusiastically.

Binky Tailsnap tugs urgently on Duethielle Ladrennbenn's sleeve.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn says, "Hmm..?"

Binky Tailsnap exclaims, "They want to buy!"

You blink.

You blush furiously.

Llani tells you, "I know! I have SO many bumblebee things, I'll have to show them to you sometime!"

Faintly buzzing, you exclaim, "Er - unless are still busy with party stuffs!"

Raising his hands quickly, you say, "Do not want to inconvenience if are busy."

Airily, Duethielle Ladrennbenn says, "Oh... I'm happy to sell... things." She gestures vaguely at the shelves, "Lanterns and such."

You give a short gasp of elation.

Faintly buzzing, you ask, "Lanterns? May look?"

Binky Tailsnap nods his head enthusiastically.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn says, "Ah! Let me show you what I have!"
[Lanterns]
     lantern354595: skylantern (a radiant lunar sky lantern        8     100gp
     lantern354562: skylantern (an evanescent cherry blosso       10     100gp
     lantern354480: skylantern (a pale sky lantern shrouded       10     100gp
     lantern351681: skylantern (an overgrown sky lantern tr        8     100gp
[Origami]
     blossom349986: wetfoldorigami (a sweet jacaranda bloss       10      60gp
     origami348076: wetfoldorigami (a prancing fawn origami       10      60gp
[Trinkets]
        pipe356789: a scorched pipe of burning wisterias           9     500gp
    bracelet353891: a silver bracelet with an iris charm           9     500gp
      anklet367106: a dainty bluebell chime anklet                 7     500gp
To buy something, BUY <thing> FROM DUETHIELLE.
To refill from a keg, ASK DUETHIELLE REFILL <container> FROM <keg>.
To fill your rift from a keg, ASK DUETHIELLE RIFT FILL <sips> FROM <keg>.
To recharge an enchantment, ASK DUETHIELLE RECHARGE <item> FROM <cube>.
To see an individual item, ASK DUETHIELLE WARES INFO <thing>.

Mandibles clicking as he peruses the wares, you say, "Ohhhh..."

Carefully picking up one of the lanterns, you say to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "Am liking this one..."

You pay 100 sovereigns and receive an overgrown sky lantern trailing kudzu vines.

You click your mandibles together energetically, chittering to yourself.

Excitedly, you ask Binky Tailsnap, "And what do have?"

Binky Tailsnap says, "Ah! Let me show you what I have!"
         keg211948: a sticky honeysuckle wine (keg refills)       80      50gp
         keg219074: a gently blossoming green tea (iced) (k       99      50gp
         keg216224: a dandelion wine (keg refills)                72      50gp
[Festival Wine circa 546]
      bottle308297: cerise spring-kissed wine (blossoming w       15     546gp
      bottle294078: cerise spring-kissed wine (blossoming w        1     546gp
         cup331899: a rose-trapped wine glass                     25     250gp
[Festival Snacks]
      cookie355757: a burning magnolia macaron cookie             35      50gp
       slice329139: a large mint cup cake topped with a moo        2      50gp
       slice329012: a tiny, acorn-shaped cake                      3      50gp
      muffin300574: a lemon and poppyseed muffin                  18      50gp
     platter367775: a platter of edible blossoms and forest       15      50gp
To buy something, BUY <thing> FROM BINKY.
To refill from a keg, ASK BINKY REFILL <container> FROM <keg>.
To fill your rift from a keg, ASK BINKY RIFT FILL <sips> FROM <keg>.
To recharge an enchantment, ASK BINKY RECHARGE <item> FROM <cube>.
To see an individual item, ASK BINKY WARES INFO <thing>.

Raising his tiny hands and waving them in the air like a conductor, Binky Tailsnap exclaims, "Food and drink!"

Shaking his head and laughing, you say, "Am fan of foods and drinks."

You pay 50 sovereigns and receive a large mint cup cake topped with a moonhart leaf.

You click your mandibles together energetically, chittering to yourself.

Binky Tailsnap looks up at you, whisker's lifted in anticipation. "I hope you like it, sir?"

You have emoted: Gurashi holds the lantern carefully in his smaller left hand, plucking the leaf from atop the cupcake and holding it down at his side. Bizirik perks up, then slinks forward, taking the decoration with precision, then trotting off to devour it in peace. Gurashi beams at Binky Tailsnap, turning away as he eats the cupcake.

Raising a hand to cover his mouth, you say to Binky Tailsnap, "Mm! Iff really goo'!"

You put your nose over a large mint cup cake topped with a moonhart leaf and inhale.
You take a sniff of the cup cake and your nose instantly picks up the scents of mint and earth.
You tentatively stick out your tongue and lick a large mint cup cake topped with a moonhart leaf.
You nibble at the edge of this cup cake and there is no mistake that it has mint in it!
It is moderately nutritious.

You eat a large mint cup cake topped with a moonhart leaf with gusto.
You place your nose over the cup cake and inhale, taking in the earthy
scent mingling with the mint, before taking a big bite. The fondant leaf
crumbles and melts within your mouth, leaving behind the sweet taste of
sugar, which is suddenly replaced with the fresh taste of mint of the
cake. Bite after bite, your senses are sent reeling until the cake is
gone, and all that is left are the few crumbs that still cling to your
fingertips.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn beams broadly at you.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn says, "You liked my friend's things..."

You have emoted: Gurashi wipes at his beak meticulously, careful to get every bit of frosting from his mouth. "Ehm?" He blinks, chirping.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "Mean, was good!"

Faintly buzzing, you ask Binky Tailsnap, "Was good! Are cooking lots of things?"

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly pulls out his spatula, waving it once. "Is always nice to meet fellow cook persons."

Duethielle Ladrennbenn fixes her startling blue eyes upon you and hums, swaying back and forth.

Xenthos tells you, "Is time for me to be departing, it seems."

You blink.

Looking embarrassed again, Binky Tailsnap says to you, "Um, I didn't cook them, sir."

Xenthos tells you, "I am glad you are enjoying yourself though!"

You beam broadly at Xenthos.

Puffy white fur brushing the floor as she passes, a ragdoll kitten saunters out to the ether.

Binky Tailsnap says, "I just sell them."

To Xenthos as he disappears, you say, "Be -- ....ah."

You clear your throat.

You have emoted: Gurashi rubs the back of his neck, turning back to Binky Tailsnap. "Oh! Then, who does the cookings?" After a pause, he adds, "Should really give cooking a try. Is so rewarding."

You have emoted: Gurashi glances sidelong at Duethielle Ladrennbenn, offering a smile.

Gesturing up towards the trees as his tail curls brightly, Binky Tailsnap exclaims, "Umm... I think people all over the forest!"

A torrent of bright blood rushes in from the south, rising and congealing together to form Allixea, riding Mishibi, the panther.

Raising her hand in greeting, Allixea says "Hi!"

You chirp happily at Allixea.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Binky Tailsnap, "Oh! Well... will have to see what else have made then."

Allixea ponders the situation.

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly claps, rubbing his hands together. "Will take one of each foodstuffs, please, Mister Binky!"

Allixea gives a trillingly melodic laugh.

You pay 50 sovereigns and receive a burning magnolia macaron cookie.
You pay 50 sovereigns and receive a large mint cup cake topped with a moonhart leaf.
You pay 50 sovereigns and receive a tiny, acorn-shaped cake.
You pay 50 sovereigns and receive a lemon and poppyseed muffin.
You pay 50 sovereigns and receive a platter of edible blossoms and forest fruit drizzled with honeyed sap.

You give a large mint cup cake topped with a moonhart leaf to Allixea Ysav'rai.

(Trasto): Tridemon says, "Fassa went back to continue investigating."

Duethielle Ladrennbenn leans down and places at hand upon Bizirik, the leothin as you buys food. She smiles dreamily, a tune in her throat.

Faintly buzzing, you exclaim to Allixea, "Have already had one - should try it!"

Allixea ponders Duethielle Ladrennbenn thoughtfully, looking her up and down.
Distracted, Duethielle Ladrennbenn gazes away into the distance.

Bizirik, the leothin lifts its head, looking up to Duethielle Ladrennbenn with its wide, blank eyes curiously. It begins to thrum softly, vibrating deep within its chest and lolling its head back.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn matches her humming with Bizirik's thrumming, their voices making an almost harmony. She closes her eyes and squats down by the creature.

Examining each delicacy held in each of his four hands, you say, "O-K... which one am eating first..."

Binky Tailsnap exclaims to you, "I like the acorn one!"

Bizirik, the leothin's gaze follows Duethielle Ladrennbenn, gracefully lowering its head, low to the ground. It turns half of its body towards the elfen, continuing to thrum and looking quite pleased. The thin, barely visible streaks on its body seem to pulse with faint, inner light.

Nodding at the acorn-shaped cake, you say, "Then acorn, is."

You consume a tiny, acorn-shaped cake leisurely, enjoying every bite.
Taking a generous chunk of the cake into your mouth, your senses are pleasantly met with a rich, comforting flavour as well as the accompanying scents of cinnamon and sugar. Quickly moving to the iced portion, you consume it eagerly before casting aside the twig that once acted as its support.

Your eyes bug out as you boggle in amazement.

Staring off blankly into space, you say, "Sweet..."

Binky Tailsnap nods his head enthusiastically.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn lightly strokes Bizirik, the leothin as she continues to hum, oblivous seemingly to anything else about her.

You have emoted: Gurashi turns to look at the other foods in his hands, then perks up. "Oh! Do like chocolates?" He asks the mouse-kin, mandibles clicking, unaware of his companion noisily humming nearby.

Twitching his ears, Binky Tailsnap exclaims to you, "I've never had the pleasure of having any. I hear the beans come from far far away!"

Bizirik, the leothin's wide eyes slowly close, and it scoots forward, then tenderly presses its pointed head into Duethielle Ladrennbenn's chest. The thrumming continues, great tail lifting once before slapping the ground behind it.

You give a short gasp of elation.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Binky Tailsnap, "Then will be treat!"

Fumbling in his pack with one free hand, you say to Binky Tailsnap, "Is own design and -everything-."

You give a nest-shaped meringue carrying a chocolate egg to Binky Tailsnap.

Bizirik, the leothin leans on Duethielle Ladrennbenn seeking consolation.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn wraps her arms around Bizirik, the leothin and breaks into a smile, opening her eyes. She continues to hum, now with a small, wandering tune of her own. She does not seem bothered by the bold movements of the creature.

Binky Tailsnap turns his attention towards you as his ears perk up in interest.

You have emoted: Gurashi offers a cheerful "enjoy!" to Binky as he hands over the delicate chocolate and meringue dessert, then turns towards Duethielle Ladrennbenn to offer the second. "Miss..." He trails off, blinking.

Surprised, you say to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "Bizi is not usually so good with new peoples... bet can tell are nice person."

A flurry of blackthorn petals arrives from the south, thorny vines sprouting within the floral cloud and twining together to form the body of Esei.

Binky Tailsnap tucks the two cookies into his belt and accepts the meringue with a happy smile. He turns to look at Duethielle Ladrennbenn.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn blinks for a moment, stroking Bizirik, the leothin, before looking up at you. "Hmm?" she murmurs, "He is very musical..."

Bizirik, the leothin keeps its head bowed, completely ignoring the kephera and thrumming. A few choice clicks and chitters arise from deep within its chest, flexing and relaxing its clawed feet against the ground.

Sheepishly, you say to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "Ah - she, actually..."

You have emoted: Gurashi reaches out, then thinks better of it, resting his hand on his hip. "Her name is Bizirik. Think is happy to meet you."

Esei slips into black leather bracers.

Allixea ponders Esei thoughtfully, looking them up and down.

Esei tilts their head curiously at Allixea.

Allixea Ysav'rai says, "Loosing clothes?"

Esei gives a pained sigh.

Visionary Esei of the Ascending Dusk asks, "No?"

Duethielle Ladrennbenn slowly stands up, leaving her hand upon Bizirik, the leothin. "She is beautiful." Her voice is firm for once, her blue eyes glittering. Her braid unwinds as she stands.

Allixea ponders the situation.

You have emoted: Gurashi watches Duethielle Ladrennbenn quietly, the other hands holding food lowering. "Many thank yous. Think so too," He looks down at the Leothin as it follows the elfen's motions while she stands. "Should see her at night. Is -really- something."

Coming back to, you ask Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "Would like some chocolate?"

Allixea ponders the situation.

Feoragan breaks apart a piece of coal and plucks a thick shard from the rubble. With a careful eye she ponders Binky Tailsnap for a moment before making deft sketches upon a thin sheet. Looking up from her work she glances at her model and nods in satisfaction.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn shakes her head vaguely, turning towards Binky Tailsnap.

You blink.

Binky Tailsnap starts on the meringue and nibbles lightly on the nest, before licking the chocolate egg.

Binky Tailsnap blinks.

Allixea Ysav'rai whispers to you, "How far into the serenwilde do you think I can get before they notice I am trying to see my old guild hall?"

Bursting with surprise, Binky Tailsnap exclaims, "Sweet!!"

Offering her surroundings a smile with watery eyes, a rainbow-furred seal with slippery flippers flops over onto her back and wiggles in apparent delight before freezing in place for several moments, rolling upright a few moments later with a smug smile.

With a laugh, you ask Binky Tailsnap, "Right?"

You peer at Allixea unscrupulously.

Mandibles clicking, you say to Allixea, "Bet if asked might be shown... are still guests."

You shrug helplessly.

Feoragan coughs softly.

Binky Tailsnap quickly finishes the rest of the meringue and licks his lips, cleaning off his whiskers.

Binky Tailsnap suddenly notices Feoragan. He freezes, backing away slightly.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers to Binky Tailsnap, "I'm very sorry about before!"

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "I was drunk and..."

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "It was a dare!"

Faintly buzzing, you ask Feoragan, "What did do?"

You crease your brow in a frown.

Feoragan blushes furiously.

A sudden gale sweeps across the area, stirring dust and plucking at clothing as Skarde steps out of the winds themselves.

Binky Tailsnap covers his face with his little hands.

Bizirik, the leothin snorts, continuing to stand glued to Duethielle Ladrennbenn's side, blatantly ignoring Gurashi's snapping fingers calling it to him.

You crease your brow in a frown.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn vaguely strokes Bizirik, the leothin, humming and swaying in place.

(Trasto): You say, "She likes my dog."
(Trasto): You say, "Catlizard."
(Trasto): Feoragan says, "Wink wonk ;)"
(Trasto): Errente (from the Astral Plane) says, "I like dogs."
(Trasto): You say, "Cries i love her."
(Trasto): Esei says, "Put a ring on it."

Feoragan shuffles her feet uneasily.

Skarde offers Duethielle Ladrennbenn and Binky Tailsnap a soft smile, "Well, hello." the aslaran greets, placing his left paw upon a dark amethyst edged blue kirin with two spiralling silver horns as he walks beside her.

With several beats of her wings, Allixea alights upon Skarde's shoulder.

From behind his hands, Binky Tailsnap exclaims, "I'm sorry! I like you very much ma'am but I don't like like you!"

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "I'm sorry!!"

You have emoted: Gurashi looks between Binky Tailsnap and Feoragan, folding his one free hand across his chest.

Feoragan lets out a frightened squeak and suddenly curls up into nothing more than a ball of fluff.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "I'll... Make you a present to say sorry!"

Allixea hugs Skarde compassionately.

Allixea Ysav'rai says to Skarde, "I'll be back!"

Binky Tailsnap shakes his head.

Allixea, riding Mishibi, the panther, dissolves into the pool of blood beneath her, which courses westward in a rolling torrent.

Binky Tailsnap says, "I just sell things. That's all."

You have emoted: Gurashi continues to stand watch, but not before lifting a burning magnolia macaron cookie to his mouth and eating it, careful to hide his face behind his hand.

You quickly devour a burning magnolia macaron cookie.
A delicate floral essence dwells within the macaron, difficult to
discern once the storm of competing flavours swiftly claim a foothold.
Notes of toasted orange easily meld with it, pairing sunny citrus with a
touch of smoke and a flourishing sweetness. The burnt aspect takes a
sharper turn as it gives way to the sharp tang of liquorice, heavy and
cloying before bursting into intense, spiced notes of ginger. Echoes of
orange blossom within the aftertaste, lingering amidst the pungent
liquorice and ginger heat.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "What do you sell?"

Binky Tailsnap gestures at the shelves behind him. "Food and drink!"

Feoragan nods her head enthusiastically.

A bit of macaron frosting stuck to his beak, you exclaim to Feoragan, "Foods!! And also drinks!"

Duethielle Ladrennbenn says to Binky Tailsnap, "You can talk now..." she observes vaguely, "How nice..."

Faintly buzzing, you say to Feoragan, "Are -really- good, wowee, am liking that one."

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers to you, "He's like the Wilde's version of you."

You blink.

You tilt your head curiously at Feoragan.

You tilt your head curiously at Binky Tailsnap.

Binky Tailsnap's ears perk up with a sudden interest.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "But uh... Y'lknow."

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "Less buggy."

You ponder the situation.

Feoragan romps playfully about the room.

With a little wave, you say, "Well then am honored. Mister Binky seems like perfectly nice persons."

Faintly buzzing, you ask Binky Tailsnap, "Speaking of, Miss Duethielle did not want other chocolate eggy - would like?"

Bizirik, the leothin thrums softly, turning its head to look up towards the sky and impending sunset.

Binky Tailsnap exclaims to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "I can always talk!" He turns to Gurashi with wide eyes, "Oh, if I could please! I would be very appreciative!"

You give a nest-shaped meringue carrying a chocolate egg to Binky Tailsnap.

With a nod, you say to Binky Tailsnap, "Is yours!"

You chirp happily.

You see the following people here:
Uzriel, Skarde, Vatul, Gurashi.

Glancing at the wares, Lady Nightingale Vatul Feyranti, of the Danse Macabre says to Uzriel, "I particularly enjoy that silver bracelet with the iris."

Duethielle Ladrennbenn hums to herself, going off in her own little world once more as she slowly sways about the glade.

Bizirik, the leothin remains glued to the elfen's side, head lowered as it stalks beside her.

Bizirik, the leothin continues to thrum softly, though lets out another series of chirps and clicks, slowing.

Shadows grow longer in anticipation for the return of their dark mistress as Father Sun's chase brings him closer to the world's edge.
As nightfall steals the last vestiges of daylight, a slender leothin's muted coat begins to shine with a violaceous radiance, and a double pair of wings materializes, grandly extended as if they've been there all along.

Esei gives a copper curlicue covered easel to Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd.

Binky Tailsnap tucks the other chocolate egg into his belt. Now he looks like he has some lumps near his abdomen.

Vatul blinks slowly as she gazes off in a distant, direction, listening to some faint voice. "Why are you sorry?" She utters gently into the dusk. She manages to recover some of her composure and smiles at Uzriel, saying, "Do you like it as well? I have always thought the iris was beautiful, though not as much as the amaranth."

Feoragan utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

You think to yourself: Ah ... is getting late ... have been here for while, now...

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

Stepping aside and calling out in a sing-song voice, you say to Bizirik, the leothin, "Biiiiiiiiziiiiiiiii."

Bizirik, the leothin pretends not to hear, shaking itself out and flapping its wings like mad for several seconds before settling back down.
Feoragan breaks apart a piece of coal and plucks a thick shard from the rubble. With a careful eye she ponders Binky Tailsnap for a moment before making deft sketches upon a thin sheet. Looking up from her work she glances at her model and nods in satisfaction.

Feoragan romps playfully about the room.

Voice muffled by his mask, Geochemist Uzriel i'Xiia says, "It is lovely, I myself quite like the wisteria pipe, an unexpected design from Serenwilde."

Vatul nods her head emphatically.

Squeaking ominously, Nascent Feoragan, Attendant to the Wyrd whispers, "Aha..."

You think to yourself: Should go...

You think to yourself: ...but do not want to go!

You think to yourself: Have to at least let Miss Lief know...

Lief enters from the south, emanating an aura of immense power.

You have emoted: Gurashi turns his gaze towards the south, stooping down to gather the drum he'd set aside, carefully brushing it off.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Lief, "Oh - was just coming to find..."

Elexia enters from the south, trailing a silver entourage of somber, spectral ancestors.

Lief wings a merry, weary circle about the gathering. "Thank you, everyone, for joining us," she beams.

Elexia waves energetically.

You smile softly at Lief.

Feoragan romps playfully about the room.

Faintly buzzing, you ask Lief, "Party is ending?"

Lady Nightingale Vatul Feyranti, of the Danse Macabre says to Lief, "You must find solace in your success."

Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon laughingly says to you, "You are all welcome to stay for as long as you'd like, but I myself must take my rest."

You nod your head slowly in understanding.

Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon says to Lief, "You have more than earned it, sister. Thank you, for everything."

Faintly buzzing, you say to Lief, "Well ... many thank yous - really, should probably also get some rest, but wanted to make sure got drum back."

Elexia clasps her hands in front of her and bows deeply to Lief in a sign of genuine respect. "May the Spirits watch your rest, Awanydd," she says.

You have emoted: Gurashi awkwardly holds up the drum, then lowers it once more, shrugging.

Lief bows her antlered head low, then raises her head, laughter finding its way to her lips. "Perhaps that's a natural end to the party!"

You beam broadly at Lief.

Millien hugs Lief compassionately.

Lief beams at you, winging a circle about you. "You may keep it," she offers, "or you can set it aside. I'll clean up when I return."

Lief hugs Millien compassionately.

Bizirik, the leothin finally turns its attention away from the elfen, standing and stretching, plodding over towards the newcomers. It snuffles in Lief's direction, tilting up its head.

Vatul inclines her head politely to those around her.

Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon says to Binky Tailsnap, "Thank you, and everyone, so very much for all of your hard work during this festival too, Binky."
Duethielle Ladrennbenn hums, her eyes lifted to the moonless skies.

Voice muffled by his mask, Geochemist Uzriel i'Xiia says, "Excuse us, duty calls."

You nod your head emphatically.

Binky Tailsnap beams broadly.

Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon says to Lief, "I could clean up for you, sister, but did you have a plan for the excess food? A place I should store it?"

Binky Tailsnap exclaims to you, "Thank you for chocolate!"

Faintly buzzing, you say to Lief, "Many thank yous for having. Was fun."

Elexia tilts her head and listens intently to Lief.

You smile softly at Binky Tailsnap.
Binky Tailsnap clasps his tiny hands together.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Binky Tailsnap, "Am glad could get to enjoy!"

Lief looks about herself, rubbing her chin thoughtfully.

Awanydd Lief Myeras-Silvermoon says to Elexia, "We could lay whatever is left over by the Moonhart Mother Tree."

Comprehension flashes across Elexia's face.

Elexia nods her head affirmatively.

Elexia Myeras-Silvermoon smiles and says, "Consider it done, Awanydd."

Elexia leaves to the south, bringing with her a silver entourage of spectral ancestors.

Lief claps her hands together merrily.

Esei stares blankly into space.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks between Binky Tailsnap, then Duethielle Ladrennbenn, still smiling softly. "If ever are out and about and wanting more chocolates ... can always give holler." He offers sheepishly.

Lief bows her antlered head, then waves once more. "Blessed and merry springtide, one and all!" she beams.

Lief grows still and her lips begin to move silently.

You see the following people here:
Allixea, Lief, Millien, Gurashi.

You wave goodbye at Lief.

Lief is enveloped in translucent fire for a moment and is gone, her soul safe until she returns to Lusternia.

Allixea Ysav'rai says, "It was wonderful to return as a friend for the first time in years."

Allixea nods her head emphatically.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks back towards the vendors, awkwardly rubbing the back of his head. "Was very nice meeting you." He smiles shyly at Duethielle Ladrennbenn. "Boths of you."

Duethielle Ladrennbenn turns towards you and gives your hand a squeeze. "Bring more music..." she smiles vaguely.

Allixea Ysav'rai says, "And to be honest I made it to the spiritsinger guildhall, it was very much how I remember it when I left sadly."

Allixea nods her head emphatically.

Millien scratches her head looking for an idea.

Allixea suddenly shouts, "POOF!" and waits as if expecting something.

Allixea touches a glowing emerald leaf, and leafy creepers push up through the ground and climb up Allixea's legs. The leaves turn brown and blow away, taking Allixea with them, leaving behind nothing but the loamy smell of the forests.

You have emoted: Gurashi seems to stand up taller, squeezing Duethielle Ladrennbenn's hand back in return. "Will do." A pause. "Will be Festival in Glomdoring in few years, not unlike this one." He pauses, "If are not too ... intimidated to come, should both visit. Will be great fun."

You chirp happily.

You beam broadly.

You quickly devour a lemon and poppyseed muffin.
You devour this large muffin bit by bit, revelling in the lemon flavour as well as the multitude of poppyseeds covering the top. Not a grain nor piece escapes you as you lick your fingers clean and glance around for another.

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

Nodding, Binky Tailsnap says, "I think Duet likes such things."

Thoughtfully, you say, "Oh, that muffin was favorite..."

Millien hugs Jolanthe compassionately.

Faintly buzzing, you ask Binky Tailsnap, "Ah, really?"

Jolanthe hugs Millien compassionately.

Binky Tailsnap exclaims to you, "Music, you know!"

Faintly buzzing, you say to Duethielle Ladrennbenn, "Well, if are free, should come by. Will be musics and dancing and foods."

You have emoted: Gurashi smiles at Duethielle Ladrennbenn hopefully.

With expert precision, Jolanthe assembles an elongated bacon strip sky lantern from a pile of vellum laid before her.
A fierce timberwolf tilts back his head in a low, resonant howl.
Jolanthe gives an elongated bacon strip sky lantern to you.

You blink.

Duethielle Ladrennbenn is already humming softly again, her attention back to the moonless skies.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Jolanthe, "...looks almost too good to light..."

You have emoted: Gurashi smiles weakly.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Anyway. Best be off."

Jolanthe Myeras says, "An extra momento for the trip home, inspired by a side conversation where I misheard someone."

The Liar stiffens in surprise for a moment as they find company, and flush for a moment.

Awkwardly holding out the drum, you say to Jolanthe, "Uhm, am not sure where to put this."

You tilt your head curiously at the Liar.

Jolanthe curtseys gracefully.

Faintly buzzing, you say to the Liar, "Do not be shy, are not biting peoples. And am leaving anyways."

Jolanthe Myeras says to you, "Go well."

Pausing near the entrance to the clearing, you say to Bizirik, the leothin, "Come on, have to go home!"

Bizirik, the leothin snorts contemptuously, butt remaining planted on the ground.

The Liar slumps slightly at your words before taking a deep breath and offering you a shaky smile. "G-go well."

You chirp happily at the Liar.

You have emoted: Gurashi narrows his eyes, awkwardly averting any gazes on him as he continues to subtly try to get the leothin's attention.

Binky Tailsnap's ears perk up as his attention turns towards the Liar.

You think to yourself: Oh, Bizi...

You think to yourself: Please don't do this to.

His voice suddenly a few octaves higher, Binky Tailsnap exclaims to the Liar, "HI!"

Jolanthe Myeras says to Millien, "I may have missed most of the month's festivities this go around, but hopefully you enjoyed them in kind!"

Midnight shadows coalesce around a new day, and Mother Night embraces the land in utter darkness.
It is now the 6th of Vestian, 546 years after the Coming of Estarra.
There are 31 days until the New Moon

The Liar rubs the back of their neck awkwardly and looks towards the east, and then the south. "Did...uh..." Their voice is awkward and soft, modulating strangely as they ask, "Did...I miss the rest of the party?"

In a slightly glum tone, Millien Myeras says to Jolanthe, "Too crowded."

In a slightly glum tone, Millien Myeras says, "..Soup's good, though.."

Jolanthe Myeras says to Millien, "Ah, unfortunate, but it's always good when we can still make our claims."

From across the clearing, you say to the Liar, "Miss Lief said that was going to rest, but that peoples were welcome to stay."

In a slightly glum tone, Millien Myeras says, "I had t' study, so..It was convenient.."

Jolanthe Myeras says to the Liar, "I believe it has pretty well wrapped up now, yes - but all are still welcome in the grounds for the time being."

Holding up the drum he's been trying to get rid of, you ask the Liar, "Want to play?"

The Liar gulps nervously and offers Binky Tailsnap a very soft smile, lowering their voice as they respond, "Oh, uh...hello, I hope I did not scare you when I said your cookies were so good earlier. You ran and I hope I was not too loud."

Binky Tailsnap blushes furiously.

The Liar turns their attention towards you, frowning in confusion, "...what are those?"

In a slightly glum tone, Millien Myeras says, "..Th' one with all th' hoses is gone, I think. Which is good..Bad things come with The Tower."

Millien snuggles up close to Jolanthe and leans comfortably on her.

Bizirik, the leothin snorts as Gurashi walks up to it, steadfast in its refusal to move even as the kephera ruffles the top of its head. "Is a drum." He holds it out to the Liar. "Was what were playing at fire. Is fun. Can do whatever want with it."

Jolanthe Myeras says to you, "I can always take up the drum as needed."

Encouragingly, you say to the Liar, "Experiment with and see what like. Or if even like."

Jolanthe Myeras says to Millien, "Oh? I'm afraid I don't know much of that."

You chirp happily at Jolanthe.

Binky Tailsnap appears to have lost his powers of speech after the initial squeak.

Faintly buzzing, you say to the Liar, "And if do not like can give to Miss Jolanthe."

You beam broadly.

Jolanthe nods her head sagely.

You chitter at the Liar with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

The Liar almost reaches out to take the drum, but then withdraws their hand, gently saying, "I...think you should maybe hold onto it, unless it is needed here. You do not want to forget the feelings it helped you to feel. That is a very bad feeling."

You blink.

You tilt your head curiously at the Liar.

You have emoted: Gurashi continues to stare confused at the Liar, looking between him and the drum he holds. "Oh..." He trails off, then turns to offer it to Jolanthe. "Well, then is settled. Do not mind taking?"

Jolanthe Myeras says to you, "If your wish is to pass it on, then certainly."

Faintly buzzing, you say to Jolanthe, "Would be selfish to keep."

You beam broadly at Jolanthe.

The Liar opens their mouth to explain but shrinks back carefully, offering another awkward, and certainly confused, smile.

With a quick beat of her wings Millien rises to circle slowly around the Liar, studying him curiously.

You have emoted: Gurashi pushes the drum gently into Jolanthe's hands, then turns to his leothin, clapping his hands together loudly. "O-K! Bizirik! Enough of this!"

Faintly buzzing, you say to Bizirik, the leothin, "Is time! To go -home-."

The Liar quietly turns to Binky Tailsnap and opens their mouth, presumably to ask about food, before they blink and turn to offer Millien an extended stare of their mismatched eyes.

In a slightly glum tone, Millien Myeras says, "..Th' soup's good if you want it."

Finally finding his voice, Binky Tailsnap exclaims to the Liar, "I'd give you all my cookies but I have to make the funds." He takes out a bumblebee cookie, clearly the one he meant for himself, and gives it to the Liar, "Here! Here's one you can have!"

In a slightly glum tone, Millien Myeras says, "I can't tell your card, but..If y'like soup.."

The Liar exclaims to Millien, "Is the soup good? I would like to try some, I don't think I've ever had soup before!"

Bizirik, the leothin snorts, refusing to budge even a hair as Gurashi stomps right up to it. The kephera peers down intimidatingly at the leothin, earning a single, excited wiggle. He tries to move , gently shoving it with his smaller hands, stopping only when the creature rises, snorting in annoyance.

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.

In a slightly glum tone, Millien Myeras says, "..I thought I had some..Where did it go.."

Jolanthe offer the drum a single, emphatic thunk, seeming to enjoy the momentary sound of its resonance.

Millien scratches her head looking for an idea.

Offering an embarrassed bow, you say, "Many ... thank yous again for all of hospitalities. And was lovely to meet all of."

Jolanthe curtseys gracefully.

The chirping of crickets surrounds you in a medley of night-time music.

In a slightly glum tone, Millien Myeras says, "I'll try to find soup and..I don't know how t' get it around t' you. But I'll look."

The Liar suddenly blinks at the cookie, and they look down with obvious and unashamed delight at the sweet before turning and digging around in a pocket and pulling out a slightly squished rainbow cupcake, "There is...oh, here! I have been given many of these, and it feels very good to share!" Thinking nothing of the gesture, they offer up the sweet to Binky Tailsnap, smiling brightly down at him.

Squinting towards the Liar and Millien both, you say, "...most of. Do not think met you or you, but hi is nice to meet am Gurashi."

You wave goodbye.

Jolanthe Myeras says, "I can always bake more cookies too, if that might be a useful application of my time. I'm rather tired for much else."

You draw the Fingerblade of dha'Wyrden-cree across the inside of your wrist, causing a line of blood to well up. You then lift the blade into the air, as shadows spill out of the wet crimson tip, swarming around you and taking you to the Realm of Shadows.
Before the Master Ravenwood Tree.
The dark heart of Glomdoring Forest is almost audibly beating in this, its shadowy centre. Tall, blackened trees surround this clearing, pressing together into an imposing barrier of rotten vegetation. Moulds and fungi are smeared across the plants, their pungent stench suffusing the forest. The branches are coated in dark slime, slick tendrils that hang downwards. Although a variety of trees might actually grow here, the black tar that coats them renders them indistinguishable. A thin black mist creeps between the trees, hanging low across the ground. The floor of the clearing itself is simply bare earth, cracked and dry. Overshadowing all is the Master Ravenwood Tree itself, jutting into the sky like a twisted fist. The sound of laughing crows echoes down from the treetops, a harsh sound for the ears below. The atmosphere vibrates with a palpable power. Brennan Stormcrow paces here, his cadaverous body twitching with sudden jerks. The Master Ravenwood Tree towers over everything here, pulsing with an immeasurable yet dark power. Casting darkness all around, a shadow totem thrusts up from the ground, chilling the air. There are 5 black direwolves here. There are 2 armoured bats here. There are 12 illithoid scourges here. There are 17 shadowlord widowriders here. There are 16 dark nighthags here. A solstice stocking has been hung here. A crudely crafted shrine of harsh black crystal stands here, thrumming powerfully. Splintered from the Master Ravenwood, a massive branch lies here, spiders crawling along its rotting wood. A giant bat hangs here, wings folded about its body and one beady eye open. In the shape of an open palm, a metallic sigil lies here. A mature hemlock tree stands proudly here. An animated skeleton stands here with a ghostly outline of a beetle around its skull. An animated skeleton stands here with a ghostly outline of a wasp around its skull. An animated skeleton stands here with a ghostly outline of a spider around its skull. An animated skeleton stands here with a ghostly outline of a bat around its skull. Glowing gently with a soft blue light, a delicate dreamcatcher has been permanently hung here. A brilliant blue robe covers the majority of the Avatar as he stands here emanating a powerful aura. There are 3 dusky brocade moths here. A hamster peers about from behind the bars of his cage-wheel. There are 3 curious young kittens here. A green parakeet scratches against the ground in his search for a quick meal. Snarling and slavering, a massive dark violet rage worg with wings of mist and shadow waits here. Clad in matte black leather, a golden-eyed savage lingers here like a living shadow. The shadowy form of a Daughter of the Night stands here, exuding wyrden power from within swirling black robes.
You see a single exit leading north.

Valonah nods her head emphatically.

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

As you release an elongated bacon strip sky lantern into the air, it begins to float slowly upon the breeze, drifting upward.

You think to yourself: Heart keeps racing ...

You think to yourself: Why do feel so weird.

A crackle heralds the emergence of a bacon-shaped lantern, its elongated form casting roasted hues of crimson and russet upon the surroundings as it ascends ever higher.

(The Shadow Kindred): You say, "That party tho."

Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Valonah Bel'Fiore, Soul of Darkness says to Evette, "Are you alright?"

As an elongated bacon strip sky lantern drifts away, it grows smaller and smaller on the horizon until you see naught but a speck of light floating in the distance.

Valonah lays a hand on the forehead of Evette, who glows with a sparkling silver light.

Evette nods her head affirmatively at Valonah.

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

You think to yourself: Feel weird why do feel weird.

You think to yourself: Did dance too much.

Evette, Herald of Strife says to Valonah, "Thank you."

Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Valonah Bel'Fiore, Soul of Darkness says to Evette, "Of course."

Dazed, you ask, "Did have party at the fun...?"

Evette, Herald of Strife asks Valonah, "Do you need me to replace the power?"

Valonah shakes her head at Evette.

Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Valonah Bel'Fiore, Soul of Darkness says to you, "I really did, did you?"

Smiling almost dreamily, you say to Valonah, "Did, yes."

Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Valonah Bel'Fiore, Soul of Darkness says to you, "It seemed you are quite the dancer, you had them lined up!"

Valonah's eyes twinkle enchantingly.

You have emoted: Gurashi laughs weakly, rubbing the back of his head. "Do not know about that..."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Has been long... long time since have really danced tho."

Thoughtfully, you say, "Since last Ascension, if think about..."

You think to yourself: With Ishra.

Waving her hand dismissively, Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Valonah Bel'Fiore, Soul of Darkness says, "Well Gurashi, I would have said you were born with that ability the way you moved."

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly chirrs, staring fixed at no point in particular with a wistful expression. "...ah," He snaps back to, "Many thank yous. Guess was born to boogie, and not ... die in kepheran mines or something!"

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

You think to yourself: Oh no.

Daem utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Valonah Bel'Fiore, Soul of Darkness says to you, "Hah, that is a good thing for sure!"

You have emoted: Gurashi smiles weakly.

Lord Daem Bel'Fiore of Relentless Darkness smiles and says, "Very glad you aren't in the kepheran mines and are here with us."

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Anyway... am sweaty, and exhausted, and have naked person's paint on me, so am going to go home and wash ups and sleep."

You chirp happily at Daem.

Daem nods his head at you.

Valonah raises her hands and clouds form and darken overhead, releasing a heavy rain that drenches the area.

Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Valonah Bel'Fiore, Soul of Darkness says to you, "Hopefully that will help wash some of that off."

You think to yourself: Oh no..

Daem gives a creamy lavender-scented soap to you.

Lord Daem Bel'Fiore of Relentless Darkness says, "Some soap may help too."

Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Valonah Bel'Fiore, Soul of Darkness says to you, "Rest well."

You have emoted: Gurashi nods, then turns quickly, scrambling off with Bizirik loping behind.

A chilling, forestal curiosities room.
The shadowy outline of a twisted forest casts a dark gloom here. The first discernible sensation upon entering this room is a mixture of earthy smells; mulch, petrichor, decaying wood, and the heady scent of Wyrden roses saturate the air. As one's eyes adjust to the darkness, barely abated by shadowflame sconces hung on the walls, tall figures begin to emerge. Expansive shelves carved to look like tree trunks seem to grow out of the floor and reach clear to the ceiling. The moss-green rug has been cut to fit neatly between each root and around each curve, giving the illusion of springy turf underfoot. Gently glowing fungi, which seem to be growing out of the shelves at random, make it just possible to see their contents. On one shelf, a scorched dragonturtle shell and a dried starfish sit beside a glistening glasswork recreation of a pile of salmon roe. On another, a pair of arrows with heart-shaped heads are arranged with one crossed over the other, and a scented love-letter lies on top of them. Other shelves are crammed with an increasingly peculiar assortment of knickknacks: an ice pick, a tiny red stone, a dusty brown bottle with "Alchywhole" written in a barely legible script, a cuddly stuffed Tae'dae bear, a miniature rockeater figurine, an ornate ivory pipe, a pile of glittering Czigany coins, and a charm bracelet that looks to be of Fae origin. One rather macabre shelf holds a coiled slave master's whip and a skull that appears to have belonged to a Krokani before it made its way here. Still other shelves lie bare, waiting to be filled with more mementos of adventure to come, and in the corner of one of them a tiny black spider has made its web. Light flickers from the delicate golden lantern that hangs from high above. A broad glass-faced display rack for musical instruments stands proudly here. A painting of Gurashi's Staring Contest is proudly exhibited on a nearby wall. A painting of blackthorn thicket has been thrown on the ground here. In the shape of an open palm, a metallic sigil lies here. A painting of "Harvest" has been thrown on the ground here. You see a sign here instructing you to use the PORTAL command to enter the aetherplex system.
You see exits leading north and south.

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Lord Daem Bel'Fiore of Relentless Darkness, "Many thank yous for soap."

Caressing your ear, the voice of Daem whispers, "Of course."

You have emoted: Gurashi stands stiffly in the portal room, staring about the open space with wide, concerned eyes.

Beads of sweat break out on your face.

A modest kitchen with forest motifs.
The shadowy outline of a twisted forest casts a dark gloom here. Like something out of a story book, this little kitchen with a small center island feels warm and comfortable. Ground-level cabinets have been painted a rich forest green and are outlined with tiny handmade crow and leaf imprints. High-mounted ravenwood shelves are lined with jars of herbs and spices, as well as odd-shaped baking implements and pans. Cast iron fixtures are set in strategic places beside heavy wash basins, and an open window overlooks the garden, offering a refreshing breeze. Hanging over the island is a blackened storage rack with several well-used skillets and cooking utensils suspended by hooks. Offsetting the dark decorations are brightly colored hand towels and oven mitts decorated with childish happy cows playing in a field. A painting of Gurashi and the Chamber of Crab-ness is proudly exhibited on a nearby wall. Surrounded by a faint, emerald halo, an ethereal cat romps playfully about the area.
You see exits leading south, west, and up.
A flash of emerald from the south announces the entry of an ethereal cat.

You have emoted: Gurashi approaches the wash basin, pumping from the well and eventually bringing forth a steady stream of icy water. With a determined huff he removes his hat and sticks his head under the water, letting out a yelp of discomfort from the sudden cold.

Bizirik, the leothin blinks slowly, staring from its seated spot nearby. With a low groan it rests its chin upon the counter, lolling its head to the side.

An ethereal cat makes a plaintive meow, looking pitiable.

You have emoted: Gurashi pulls his head out from under the water after a minute, shaking his head free of any frigid droplets. For a long while he stands at the basin, staring remorsefully at the pump.

You pet an ethereal cat ingratiatingly.
An ethereal cat stares at you with unblinking eyes, a look of contempt across his face.

Faintly buzzing, you say to an ethereal cat, "Many apologies..."

You have emoted: With a heavy groan, Gurashi makes his way up the stairs, his feet dragging. "Maybe should have left new person take drum..." He mumbles.

A quaint bedroom overlooking the garden.
Stepping inside this small, relatively plain bedroom, one might believe it belongs to a youth. Ikon collections have been displayed on thin wall-set shelves, and pretty stones, bug shells and picked flowers decorate various surfaces. A small wooden wind chime has been hung from a hook beside one open window, clunking softly while creating simple melodies. The fragrance of the garden wafts into this room, smelling of rich wet dirt and flowers. On the sill of the other window sits a small terrarium filled with moss and rotting wood, and a tiny death watch beetle ticks happily inside. A wooden board has been hung by the door, pinned with important news bulletins and a few lavender letters. A giant cookie-shaped chair sits here, appearing fresh baked and ready to eat. A four poster bed stands here, invitingly strewn with cushions and blankets. Invitingly deep and made of warmly coloured wood, a rocker is here. Pulled open to let the light shine in, a pair of forestal drapes is here. A large ravenwood chest rests on its side in the corner of the room, its front securely closed. A painting of Gurashi and the Faeling Princess is proudly exhibited on a nearby wall.
You see a single exit leading northeast (open door).

You flop down onto the ground.

You think to yourself: ...Miss Duethielle...

You have emoted: Gurashi lays motionless on the bed, then kicks and flails his limbs once, grabbing the nearest pillow and smacking himself across the head with it.

Bizirik, the leothin stares implacably at you.

You think to yourself: Enough!

You huff and puff in outrage.

Letting an arm hang off the edge of his bed, you say, "Was still a very fun party..."

Eyes closing, you say, "Hope can make ours just as fun....."

Faintly buzzing, you say to Bizirik, the leothin, "Goodnight Bizi."

Bizirik, the leothin snorts.

You have emoted: Gurashi takes hold of the nearest bit of blanket, dragging it with great effort until it completely covers all but his antennae.

(Glomdoring): You say, "Walk in all of the shadows, Glomdoring."

(Glomdoring): You say, "Take care of each other."